Justin Bieber has been confirmed as the latest performer to join the lineup for the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final halftime show, adding another major name to an event that already includes Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy and several other internationally recognized artists.

FIFA announced Bieber’s participation ahead of the World Cup final on July 19, with the Canadian singer set to perform during an 11-minute halftime production inspired by the Super Bowl format. Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aiming to raise $100 million to help expand access to education and football opportunities for children around the world.

In a statement released alongside the announcement, Bieber said the World Cup has a unique ability to unite people across cultures and countries. He added that he was grateful to be part of an event that combines entertainment with a charitable purpose.

The halftime show marks another high-profile live appearance for Bieber, who has gradually returned to performing after stepping back from touring because of health concerns. Earlier this year, he made headlines with a nostalgic performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, where he revisited several of his biggest hits. His appearance at the FIFA World Cup final continues that return to major international stages.

Joining Bieber on the lineup are pop icon Madonna, Colombian superstar Shakira, South Korean group BTS, Nigerian singer Burna Boy, Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, New York’s PS22 Chorus and performers associated with Sesame Street. The variety of artists reflects FIFA’s goal of creating a globally representative show that appeals to audiences from different musical backgrounds.

Shakira and Burna Boy’s participation carries additional significance because they perform Dai Dai, the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The track blends Latin pop with Afrobeats, creating a multilingual anthem that celebrates the tournament’s international spirit. Its lyrics reference several football nations, including Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Japan, South Korea and the Netherlands, reinforcing the global theme that the tournament aims to promote.

While FIFA has confirmed several performers, speculation continues over whether additional surprise guests could appear during the show. Among the names frequently mentioned by fans is Taylor Swift, whose name has circulated in online discussions and betting markets. However, neither FIFA nor Swift’s representatives have indicated that she will participate, leaving the rumors entirely unconfirmed.

Halftime entertainment of this scale represents a significant departure from football tradition. Major international football competitions have typically featured opening or pre-match ceremonies rather than performances during the break. FIFA’s decision to introduce a halftime concert similar to the Super Bowl reflects an effort to expand the entertainment experience while attracting a broader global audience.

With less than two weeks remaining before the World Cup final, the confirmed lineup already features artists spanning pop, rock, Latin music, Afrobeats, K-pop and orchestral performance. Whether additional performers are announced before kickoff remains to be seen, but the event is already shaping up to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated off-the-pitch attractions.

Source: Compiled from various sources.