Justin Bieber performed an acoustic rendition of "Everything Hallelujah" during the first-ever halftime show at a FIFA World Cup final on July 19 [1, 2].
This event marks a significant shift in soccer tradition, as FIFA introduced a structured entertainment spectacle during the final match to mirror the high-production style of U.S. sporting events.
The performance lasted 11 minutes [3] and featured a lineup of global pop stars. Alongside Bieber, the show included performances by Madonna, Shakira, and BTS [1, 2, 4]. Some reports also listed Tom Cruise as a headliner for the event [5].
Bieber's contribution focused on a slower, acoustic set that contrasted with the high-energy segments of the other artists. Reactions to the performance were divided, with some viewers describing the set as impressive, while others called it underwhelming [6].
As the inaugural halftime show for a World Cup final, the production aimed to provide global entertainment and celebrate the conclusion of the tournament [3, 5]. The inclusion of diverse international acts like BTS and Shakira highlighted the global reach of the event, while the acoustic nature of Bieber's performance provided a momentary change in tempo for the stadium crowd.
The event was streamed globally, allowing millions of fans to watch the historic collaboration of pop icons on the world's biggest sporting stage [1, 2].
“Justin Bieber performed an acoustic rendition of "Everything Hallelujah"”
The introduction of a formal halftime show at the World Cup final suggests that FIFA is increasingly adopting the 'Super Bowl model' to maximize commercial appeal and global viewership. By blending elite athletics with top-tier pop culture, the organization is expanding the event's reach beyond traditional soccer fans to a broader entertainment audience.
