In a conversation with Fox5, FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his support for the idea of Canadian rapper Drake headlining the first-ever halftime show at the 2026 World Cup final, calling it a “good idea.” Infantino also revealed that FIFA is collaborating with Chris Martin, the lead vocalist of Coldplay, to curate the first Super Bowl-style halftime show for the World Cup final next year.
Infantino discussed the possibility of Drake taking the stage during the historic event, saying, “So we can create a bit of rivalry, right? That’s a good idea. Actually, Drake was with us when we announced the host cities for the tournament… We will do that sign him for the halftime show.” The co-host then suggested, “I have a great idea for the halftime; Drake! Because Kendrick Lamar did his thing at the Super Bowl…”
In addition to the halftime show plans, Infantino mentioned that FIFA will be orchestrating what he called a “takeover” of Times Square for the final weekend of the tournament. The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with the final set to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey—renamed as New York New Jersey Stadium for the World Cup. The much-anticipated event will occur on July 19, 2026.
Drake’s involvement would mark a significant moment in the blending of music and sport, drawing on his longstanding connection to both the global music scene and his ties to the World Cup, having participated in the tournament’s announcement event alongside Infantino. With his massive fanbase, a performance by Drake would elevate the event’s entertainment and cultural significance on the world stage.