Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber and BTS perform at World Cup half
The World Cup final featured a record-breaking 27-minute half-time show with performances by global stars including Madonna, BTS, and Shakira. The extended duration of the show sparked controversy regarding tournament regulations.
Why it matters
The event highlights the increasing intersection of global sports and high-budget entertainment, while raising questions about the enforcement of international football governing rules.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Madeline Halpert New York Stars shine at half-time show Pop giants Madonna, BTS, Shakira and Justin Bieber have performed for thousands of spectators at the World Cup final in a half-time show to rival the Superbowl.
Madonna, who sung her hit song Music - seemed to appear from tunnels under the arena, joined by Brazilian football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.
The performances came in a half-time that ran to 27 minutes and 22 seconds - the longest in World Cup history.
The length of the half-time show had already caused controversy, with the International Football Association Board (Ifab) rules stating players are only entitled to a maximum 15-minute stoppage.
Colombian pop star Shakira and Nigerian musician Burna Boy reunited on stage after performing together at the tournament's opening ceremony in Mexico City last month.
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