Robert Smith, the uncompromising frontman of The Cure, has unleashed a fiery tirade against FIFA's misguided halftime show extravaganza at the World Cup final. This Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Chris Martin will be curating an 11-minute spectacle featuring A-listers Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and BTS – and it's safe to say Smith isn't buying into Infantino's hype.
His initial social media blast yesterday ripped apart the FIFA President's boasts about a "groundbreaking" show that would unite football, music, and values. Smith's characteristic bluntness was on full display as he posted an exasperated rant: "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH… #Breadandcircuses #MUGWANK #pleasejustfuckoff."
But this wasn't just a knee-jerk reaction – Smith clarified his stance, pointing out that the real issue lies not with the artists or curator. "For those of us still clueless: it's about the dodgy ideas behind a football World Cup final halftime show," he wrote in all-caps style. He slyly suggested that those who disagree should adjust their 'red cap' and T-shirts flaunting Infantino and Trump's names.
The criticism reached boiling point as Smith took aim at the confirmed attendance of Donald Trump, who will be joining Infantino to present the trophy on Sunday. "PS. Infantosser has said he and US President Trumpton will hand over [the] trophy on Sunday – and sadly, there aren't enough A's left for the 'argh' that should follow… #breadandcircuses #pleasejustfuckoff #fuckfifa #justlookup."
This isn't a new chapter in Smith's crusade against FIFA's excesses. He famously batted away The Cure headlining the opening ceremony of the Qatar World Cup, using the same '#breadandcircuses' hashtag with tongue firmly in cheek. The Cure are currently on tour across the UK and Europe, with blockbuster shows in Manchester and Edinburgh next month.