The FIFA World Cup final is the biggest game in soccer but the 2026 edition in New Jersey between Spain and Argentina is perhaps the most controversial yet.
On the field, it’s a fascinating game, perhaps the most interesting World Cup final in recent memory.
It not only pits the European champions against the South American champions for the first time in World Cup final history, Argentina are actually defending the title they won back in 2022.
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The fact that Lionel Messi is up for what is surely his last dance in this competition against the man many believe to be his heir in Lamine Yamal makes it all the more fascinating.
Still, FIFA’s planned half-time show during the World Cup final is one of the dominant talking points heading into the game.
Half-time is only supposed to last 15 minutes in soccer
Indeed, the half-time show during the World Cup 2026 final is in direct contravention to one of the game’s long-standing rules.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) explicitly state in rule 7.2 that players are entitled to a 15-minute break after the first half of a match is played.
IFAB’s rule reads: “Players are entitled to an interval at half-time, not exceeding 15 minutes; a short drinks break (which should not exceed one minute) is permitted at the interval of half-time in extra time. Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval and it may be altered only with the referee’s permission.”
However, reports suggest that the half-time interval during the World Cup final could last between 20 and 30 minutes because of the show that FIFA have planned.
The likes of Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira and BTS will all perform and the very staging of the event has attracted criticism.
Half-time shows are not generally part of the soccer landscape, with some supporters expressing their dismay ever since it was announced.
The fact that FIFA are seemingly prepared to break one of the game’s established rules just to put a show on has also invoked fierce criticism.
Read more:
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