Get ready for the ultimate spectacle! ITV is set to bring the entire half-time show to British living rooms this Sunday, as part of its extensive broadcast plans for the World Cup final. The highly-anticipated extravaganza at the New York New Jersey Stadium will be a star-studded affair, with global music icons like Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy, and Justin Bieber taking centre stage. But what's got everyone talking is the rumoured 25-minute duration - longer than the traditional 15 minutes - which has some fans worried that it might just steal the show... or worse, replace their beloved pundit analysis.
Chris Martin, frontman of Coldplay, is at the helm of this musical masterpiece, teaming up with Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel and a star-studded cast including the PS 22 Chorus, Sesame Street characters, and The Muppets. But this isn't just about entertainment - it's also a chance to make a real difference, as the performance supports FIFA's Global Citizen Education Fund, aiming to raise £75 million for education and football opportunities worldwide.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino is already hailing this as a "groundbreaking spectacle" that will "celebrate football, music and our shared values". And it's not just about the main event - ITV has also got plans for a closing ceremony 90 minutes before kick-off, featuring Hollywood A-lister Tom Cruise, pop sensation Robbie Williams, and US singer Jennifer Hudson. Nicole Scherzinger, Laura Pausini, and streamer IShowSpeed will also get their turn in the spotlight, with Hudson delivering the US national anthem.
So who'll be taking on Spain in the final? That's still to be decided - but it won't be England or Argentina after Wednesday's semi-final showdown. The stakes are high, and football fans across the nation will be holding their breath as they watch one of the greatest rivalries play out.
The World Cup final is set to be a day of drama, music, and sheer excitement - and ITV has got you covered every step of the way. Don't miss it!