World Cup final half-time could be extended to 25 minutes for Super Bowl-style show

Sunday’s World Cup final in New Jersey is set to feature a half-time break that could last up to 25 minutes, FIFA sources have indicated, as organisers prepare an 11-minute entertainment spectacle co-headlined by Madonna, Shakira and K-pop boy band BTS. The extended interval would allow for a Super Bowl-style show at New York New Jersey Stadium, with additional performances from Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay – the band’s frontman Chris Martin curated the show. The 15-minute half-time mandated by the International Football Association Board (Ifab) could be followed by the 11-minute production, meaning a total break of around 26 minutes. Last year’s Club World Cup final, also staged by FIFA in New Jersey, saw a 24-minute interval thanks to a set from Coldplay, J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems and Emmanuel Kelly. The closing ceremony will begin at 13:30 local time (18:30 BST), with Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and social media star IShowSpeed among the performers. Jennifer Hudson is scheduled to sing the United States national anthem before kick-off at 15:00 local (20:00 BST). Spain secured their place in the final by beating France 2-0 in Tuesday’s semi-final in Dallas. They will face either England or Argentina, who meet in Atlanta on Wednesday at 20:00 BST.