The build-up to Sunday's World Cup final has reached fever pitch, but it's not just the players who will be putting on a show – ITV and BBC are gearing up for a spectacle of their own, broadcasting FIFA's highly-anticipated half-time extravaganza in its entirety. Despite concerns over timing, both broadcasters have committed to showing every last note, anticipating that there'll be enough time for match analysis alongside the musical fireworks.
The interval show, curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, is set to feature a star-studded line-up including global music icons Madonna, Shakira, and the K-pop phenomenon BTS. With plans for the half-time break to last between 25 and 30 minutes – significantly longer than the standard 15-minute interval – there's a risk of breaching International Football Association Board (IFAB) regulations. But with no objections reportedly received by FIFA, it seems they're willing to take the gamble.
FIFA's decision to go big on pre-match and half-time entertainment is all part of their strategy to boost engagement at this World Cup – particularly in the US market. We've seen it before: Shakira and Burna Boy headlined a lengthy musical opening ceremony before Mexico's victory over South Africa, while Alanis Morissette and Michael Bublé got the crowd going in Toronto ahead of Canada's match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Katy Perry even fronted a performance before the USA's initial game against Paraguay.
The precedent for a longer break was set at last year's Club World Cup final, held at the same New York New Jersey venue – where a half-time show in the stands resulted in a 24-minute interval. With Sunday's show projected to last around 11 minutes and requiring stage setup and removal on the pitch, it could be even longer – but that won't stop FIFA from celebrating with a "groundbreaking spectacle" designed to "celebrate football, music and our shared values, ensuring a legacy that transcends the final whistle", according to President Gianni Infantino.
And if that wasn't enough, a closing ceremony featuring performances from Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson is scheduled to take place 90 minutes before kick-off. It's clear FIFA are determined to make this World Cup final one for the ages – with plenty of entertainment to go around!