Itv, bbc to broadcast fifa half-time show – but length remains a question mark

The spectacle surrounding this weekend’s World Cup final at New Jersey Stadium has escalated, with ITV and the BBC announcing their intent to air FIFA’s controversial half-time show in its entirety. However, the duration of this extended intermission – currently projected between 25 and 30 minutes – remains shrouded in uncertainty.

A prolonged performance, driven by american markets

Reports from The Guardian last month highlighted broadcaster concerns regarding the length of the production, meticulously curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and featuring performances from Madonna, Shakira, and K-pop sensation BTS. The decision to broadcast the show fully stems from logistical requirements – the significant time needed to dismantle the pitch-based stage – allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the match itself. It’s a shift, frankly, from the days when the World Cup offered a relatively clean political backdrop.

Last year’s Club World Cup final at the same venue saw a 24-minute break, but that was achieved with the show staged in the stands and incorporating the added complexity of on-pitch setup. Sunday’s event is expected to run longer, potentially pushing the interval beyond 15 minutes – the legal limit set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). FIFA, it seems, is operating with a degree of latitude, despite the potential breach of those regulations.

A significant investment in pre-match entertainment

This expanded halftime show represents a deliberate strategy by FIFA to cater to the demands of the American market, a move mirrored by extensive pre-match entertainment at previous tournaments. We've seen elaborate musical openings, featuring acts like Shakira and Burna Boy in Mexico City, and performances from Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé in Toronto. These displays, often featuring multiple headliners, are now a fixture of the World Cup experience. Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s president, has touted the show as “groundbreaking” and “a celebration of football, music and our shared values”. And the finale promises a star-studded closing ceremony featuring Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson.

But let’s be clear: this isn’t simply about entertainment. It’s a calculated move to elevate the World Cup’s profile in a crucial market. The legal ramifications, while currently unacknowledged by IFAB, remain a potential point of contention. The bottom line? Expect a lengthy break before kickoff – one that will undoubtedly dominate conversation alongside the game itself. It’s a significant departure from the past, and a bold statement about the evolving landscape of the world’s biggest sporting event.”n