FIFA is once again bending its own laws during this World Cup, igniting fresh debate and controversy. Following the backlash over the handling of Folarin Balogun’s red card for the USA team, now FIFA plans to extend the half-time break in the highly anticipated final between Spain and Argentina.
Traditionally, the laws of the game—governed by the International Football Association Board—limit half-time to a maximum of 15 minutes, which can only be extended with the referee’s approval. However, this final will feature an extended half-time interval of approximately 25 minutes to accommodate a star-studded entertainment lineup.
The extended break will include a performance by American singer Jennifer Hudson, who will sing the US national anthem, alongside headline acts like BTS, Shakira, Madonna, Burna Boy, Justin Bieber, and the PS22 Chorus with Coldplay. Additionally, beloved Sesame Street characters, The Muppets, and conductor Gustavo Dudamel—leading the New York Philharmonic and the Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela—will take part in what FIFA president Gianni Infantino calls a “groundbreaking spectacle” celebrating football, music, and shared values.
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The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm ET (8pm BST). Ahead of the match, FIFA will also stage a closing ceremony about 90 minutes before kick-off featuring performances from Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson.
Broadcasters BBC and ITV have committed to showing the full half-time program, confident that the extended break will still allow ample time for game analysis, especially given the stage setup and takedown requirements.
This decision comes amid ongoing speculation about possible disciplinary actions concerning Argentina’s Falklands War banner display during their semi-final against England. While FIFA faces scrutiny on multiple fronts, its choice to extend the half-time has sparked fresh debate over adherence to football’s established rules.