BTS Confirmed for 2026 World Cup Final Halftime Show: “Meaningful Honor” [Official]

Global music sensation BTS is set to take the stage at the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA North America World Cup Final Halftime Show.

On May 14 (local time), Global Citizen and FIFA jointly announced that BTS will serve as co-headliners for the ‘2026 FIFA North America World Cup Final Halftime Show,’ scheduled for July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium in the United States.

This historic event marks the very first time a Halftime Show will be featured at a FIFA World Cup™ Final. FIFA and Global Citizen have collaborated to create a spectacular performance that blends sports, music, and culture, aiming to unite the world. BTS will share the stage as co-headliners alongside legendary pop icons Madonna and Shakira, standing at the center of a moment that will capture global attention.

Through their agency, Big Hit Music, BTS conveyed their excitement, stating, “It is a tremendous honor to perform on such a significant stage that brings the entire world together. We believe music is a universal language that conveys hope and harmony. It is even more meaningful to share that message with global audiences through this World Cup and to contribute to expanding educational opportunities for children worldwide.”

The production of the Halftime Show will be managed by Global Citizen, an international advocacy organization dedicated to ending extreme poverty worldwide. The organization spearheads large-scale campaigns and music events to address critical issues such as climate change, global health, and access to education. This performance is expected to highlight the mission and fundraising campaign of the ‘FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund,’ established to provide quality education and increased access to sports for underprivileged children around the globe.

The Halftime Show will be broadcast live globally, with curation led by Coldplay’s Chris Martin. Adding to the excitement, beloved characters from ‘Sesame Street’ and ‘The Muppets’ are also confirmed as performers, promising a truly intergenerational show that everyone can enjoy.

BTS has a strong and consistent history of collaboration with Global Citizen. The group performed collectively at ‘Global Citizen LIVE’ in 2021, and individual member Jungkook graced the stage at the ‘Global Citizen Festival’ in 2023. Furthermore, Jungkook showcased his talent by participating in the official soundtrack ‘Dreamers’ for the ‘2022 Qatar World Cup’ and performing at its grand opening ceremony.

In other news, BTS is also preparing for their upcoming world tour, ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’ IN STANFORD,’ which will span three days on July 17, 18, and 20 at Stanford Stadium in the U.S. This marks a significant milestone as they will be the first Korean artists to hold a solo concert at this prestigious venue.