Justin Bieber
Photo by Renell Medrano
Big news: Justin Bieber is officially joining the star-studded lineup for the inaugural FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show. The soccer governing body confirmed on Wednesday (July 8) that the pop icon will serve as a co-headliner alongside BTS, Shakira, and Madonna.
This performance marks Bieber’s return to the major stage following his acclaimed Coachella headline set this past April. On July 19, he will bring his signature energy to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, during the tournament’s climactic finale. This spectacle signals a historic shift for FIFA, as it adopts a high-production, Super Bowl-style halftime show aimed at boosting the Global Citizen Education Fund, which seeks to improve access to education and youth soccer worldwide.
“The FIFA World Cup possesses a unique power to unify the globe,” Bieber shared in an official statement. “I’m honored to be part of this halftime showcase, especially knowing our collective efforts will directly support expanded educational opportunities for children everywhere.”
The event, meticulously curated by Chris Martin, will also feature appearances from Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, The Muppets, and the PS22 Chorus accompanied by Coldplay.
With the final match fast approaching, the field of contenders has narrowed down to just eight nations: Morocco, France, Norway, England, Spain, Belgium, Argentina, and Switzerland.
The tournament has been deeply intertwined with music since its June debut. Early festivities featured sets from Katy Perry, LISA of BLACKPINK, and J Balvin, while the official soundtrack has been a highlight of the month, featuring the chart-topping collaborative hit “Dai Dai” by Shakira and Burna Boy, alongside tracks from Tyla, Future, Jelly Roll, The Rolling Stones, Latto, and 21 Savage.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino hailed the musical inclusion, stating, “We are incredibly proud to have visionary artists like Justin Bieber and Coldplay join us. Icons like Madonna, Shakira, BTS, and the rest of our performers will send a profound message of peace and unity to a global audience of billions. Under Chris Martin’s creative direction, this event will bridge the gap between football and music to create a legacy that outlasts the final whistle.”
Bieber has enjoyed a prolific 2025, releasing two studio albums: the Billboard 200 runner-up Swag and its follow-up, Swag II. Both projects spawned multiple hits on the Billboard Hot 100, headlined by the fan-favorite anthem “Daisies.”
