The BBC has confirmed it will not broadcast the half-time show during the World Cup final, choosing instead to focus on its own analysis of the first half. This decision comes despite the involvement of major musical acts, including Madonna, Shakira, and BTS, in what will be the first-ever half-time entertainment at a men's World Cup final.
Half-Time Show Details
The show, organized by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, is set to take place at MetLife Stadium on July 19. It aims to replicate the spectacle of the Super Bowl half-time show, a tradition that FIFA president Gianni Infantino is keen to establish in football. The half-time break is expected to be extended beyond the standard 15 minutes, potentially impacting players, coaches, and broadcasters.
Broadcaster Decisions
According to reports, the BBC plans to stick with its usual format of providing expert analysis during the interval. Viewers who wish to watch the musical performances may only be able to do so via the BBC's digital platforms. ITV, the other English broadcaster, is expected to follow a similar approach.
Last year's Club World Cup final, also held at MetLife Stadium, featured a half-time show that lasted over 24 minutes. That performance took place on a stage in the stands rather than on the pitch. The extended break presents challenges for coaches, who must adjust their team talks, and for sports scientists, who need to consider the impact on players' performance when the game resumes.
Broadcasters will also have to adjust their programming schedules to accommodate the longer half-time period. However, English viewers will likely be offered football-specific content rather than the music show.
