FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hinted at the possibility of Canadian rapper Drake headlining the first-ever halftime show at the 2026 World Cup final.
This would mark a historic shift for the tournament, introducing a Super Bowl-style entertainment spectacle to the world’s biggest sporting event.
FIFA recently announced that Coldplay’s lead singer, Chris Martin, is curating the inaugural halftime show. The initiative aims to bring a fresh entertainment experience to the World Cup final, set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
Infantino supports the idea of Drake
During an interview with Fox5, Infantino responded positively to the idea of Drake leading the performance. When the host suggested, “I have a great idea for the halftime show—Drake! Because Kendrick Lamar did his thing at the Super Bowl,” Infantino immediately welcomed the proposal.
“So we can create a bit of rivalry, right?” Infantino said. “That’s a good idea. Actually, Drake was with us when we announced the host cities. We will do that.”
The biggest World Cup in history
The 2026 World Cup final will be a major event, drawing millions of viewers worldwide. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be the biggest World Cup yet, featuring an expanded 48-team format.
Adding a halftime show aligns with FIFA’s broader efforts to enhance the fan experience. The move follows the model set by the NFL’s Super Bowl, where halftime performances have become a global entertainment phenomenon. With past Super Bowl headliners like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Michael Jackson, FIFA aims to create a similar cultural moment.
Drake’s Deep connection to sports
Drake, one of the best-selling music artists of all time, has deep ties to the sports world. The Grammy-winning rapper has been a passionate supporter of Canadian teams, particularly the Toronto Raptors. His presence at major sporting events is well-documented, making him a fitting choice for FIFA’s bold new initiative.
FIFA plans a grand celebration in New York
Beyond the halftime show, FIFA is planning a grand spectacle in New York City to celebrate the final. Infantino revealed that FIFA will take over Times Square for the final weekend, creating a massive fan experience in one of the world’s most iconic locations.
A new era for the World Cup
If Drake is confirmed as the headline performer, it would mark another significant crossover between music and sports. With his global fan base and chart-topping hits, his presence would bring even more excitement to the already historic World Cup final.
As FIFA continues to shape the future of the tournament, the inclusion of a star-studded halftime show signals a shift toward making the event even more entertainment-driven. Whether Drake takes the stage or another global artist steps in, the 2026 final is set to be a landmark moment in World Cup history.
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