World Cup final half-time show expected to lead to break of more than 20 minutes – and breach laws of the game

FIFA’s first half-time World Cup final show is expected to result in an interval of more than 20 minutes, which breaches the laws of the game.

Broadcasters believe the spectacle could even lead to a break of 30 minutes, while the maximum amount of time permitted in the rulebook is 15.

Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, BTS, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay are due to perform at the Super Bowl-style half-time show, which has been curated by Coldplay lead singer Chris Martin.

There will also be a closing ceremony show starting 90 minutes before the Sunday 8pm kick-off featuring Robbie Williams, Tom Cruise, and Nicole Scherzinger.

Given the addition of two, five-minute hydration breaks, it means the showcase fixture could take a staggering 160 minutes should it go to extra-time, not allowing for injury time and penalties.

FIFA have declined to comment other than to reiterate a previous claim that they are aiming for 11 minutes for the show.

The likes of Shakira are set to perform at the half-time show at the MetLife Stadium on Sunday

However, there is likely to be additional time for pundit analysis while the set is erected and taken down, according to insiders.

The half-time interval at last year’s Club World Cup stretched to 25 minutes. IFAB rejected an attempt on an extension to the break in 2021, citing the ‘negative impact on player welfare and safety resulting from a longer period of inactivity’.

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