FIFA has moved to end days of speculation by confirming that the halftime interval in Sunday’s World Cup final between Argentina and Spain will last 17 minutes, only two minutes beyond the standard 15. The governing body communicated the schedule directly to the two national federations, detailing that 11 minutes will be occupied by musical performances from Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and BTS, with the remaining six minutes allocated to the rapid assembly and dismantling of the stage and to watering the pitch. The two customary hydration breaks, introduced throughout the tournament because of high temperatures, will be retained during each half.

The halftime show is an unprecedented addition to a World Cup final, modelled on the Super Bowl and curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin. FIFA has partnered with the advocacy platform Global Citizen to use the event as a fundraiser for education and football opportunities for children. The pre-match closing ceremony will feature Post Malone, Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger and a rendition of the US national anthem by Jennifer Hudson. The spectacle has been designed, according to FIFA, to blend sport, music and global impact, with characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets also appearing to reinforce the charitable theme.

Earlier reports had suggested the interval could stretch to 30 minutes, prompting unease among players and coaches. Argentine media relayed concerns that an extended break would cool players’ muscles and disrupt the rhythm of the match. Former FIFA president Joseph Blatter, writing on social media, condemned the innovation as a copy of the Super Bowl, asking: ‘Where are we heading, FIFA?’ In Spain, television commentators argued that the priority should remain the sporting contest. The eventual confirmation of a 17-minute pause was met with relief in both camps, though some broadcasters in Europe and the United States complained that they had not received the final timeline until late in the week, complicating advertising and analysis segments.

Logistical questions also surrounded air quality, after wildfires in Ontario, Canada, raised concerns about smoke drifting toward New Jersey. FIFA and local authorities, however, stated that conditions were being monitored and that no changes to the schedule were necessary. The match, kicking off at 4 p.m. local time (9 p.m. BST) at MetLife Stadium, will be officiated by Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić. Argentina reached the final by defeating England 2-1 in a dramatic semifinal, while Spain eliminated France 2-0. The winner will be crowned in the first 48-team World Cup, with the trophy presented by US President Donald Trump.