FIFA announced, on Wednesday, July 8, that Justin Bieber will participate in the halftime show of the World Cup final, as part of a ceremony that includes a number of international stars.
Bieber joins prominent names including Madonna, Shakira and BTS, along with Afrobeats star Burna Boy, Venezuelan orchestra leader Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 choir composed of elementary school students in Staten Island, New York.
Members of Coldplay are also scheduled to participate at the end of the show, while Chris Martin will supervise the 11-minute concert during the final match scheduled outside New York on July 19.
The offer aims to support the FIFA Global Citizens Education Fund, which seeks to raise $100 million to help children access education and football.
“The FIFA World Cup brings the world together like no other,” Bieber said. “I’m grateful to be a part of the halftime show, and even more grateful to know that it is truly expanding educational opportunities for children around the world.”
Burna Boy’s participation is particularly notable, as he participates with Shakira in the official song for this year’s World Cup, “Day Day,” which mixes Afrobeats and Latin rhythms with a multilingual, international flair.
Burna Boy said: “The FIFA World Cup is one of the rare moments that brings the whole world together. Representing Africa in the first half-time show of the FIFA World Cup final is an honor and a responsibility that I am very proud of.”
Unlike the Super Bowl, halftime shows are not a common tradition in football, as major tournaments such as the Champions League usually rely on pre-match concerts.
The show will also include characters from “Sesame Street,” in addition to famous puppets such as Kermit and Miss Piggy. (asia one)
