FIFA has confirmed that the halftime break during Sunday's 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina will last 17 minutes, dismissing speculation that the interval would stretch beyond 30 minutes because of the planned entertainment show.
The world football governing body said the break at MetLife Stadium will be extended by only two minutes from the usual 15-minute interval to allow for performances by international music stars Shakira, Madonna and Justin Bieber.
FIFA said both the Spanish and Argentine Football Federations have been informed of the revised halftime arrangements ahead of the final.
"Of the 17 minutes, 11 minutes are dedicated to musical performances by Shakira, Madonna, and Justin Bieber," read a statement.
The clarification comes after reports suggested the halftime show could push the break to more than 30 minutes because of the number of artists expected to perform.
FIFA, however, said the interruption will remain limited to 17 minutes, insisting the extension is only two minutes longer than the standard halftime period used during matches.
According to the governing body, the remaining six minutes will be used to set up and remove the performance stage before preparing the pitch for the second half. The work will also include routine field maintenance and watering.
FIFA added that hydration breaks, which have been introduced throughout the tournament because of the ongoing heatwave, will remain unchanged during the final.