Curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay, the spectacle included performances by Shakira, who sang the tournament’s official anthem “Dai Dai,” alongside pop icons Madonna, BTS, and Justin Bieber. Notably, Bieber adapted the lyrics of his song “Everything Hallelujah,” incorporating the line “It’s the World Cup, hallelujah” to mark the occasion.

The show also featured Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, performing with the New York Philharmonic and Venezuela’s Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra, adding a unique classical element rarely seen in sporting events. This extensive production necessitated significant logistical arrangements, resulting in a half-time break longer than the standard 15 minutes, akin to major U.S. sporting events. Although the International Football Association Board (IFAB) typically advises against such lengthy intervals, the World Cup’s regulations permitted the extension to facilitate the performances, allowing for the necessary set changes before the game resumed.

Beyond mere entertainment, FIFA highlighted its partnership with Global Citizen, using the platform to fund educational projects worldwide. The final match attracted a sell-out crowd, with ticket prices soaring as high as €35,000, reflecting FIFA’s aim to transform football’s premier match into a global entertainment phenomenon that appeals to new audiences.