As the world of sports continues to evolve, so too does the intersection of music and athletics. With major events like the FIFA World Cup now being marketed as not just sporting spectacles, but also as entertainment extravaganzas, it’s hardly surprising that the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States is gearing up to feature a Super Bowl-style halftime show. This shift aims to attract a wider audience, including those who may not be die-hard football fans. Nevertheless, this new approach raises questions about the implications for the sport’s integrity and traditional values.
While many purists lament the commercialization of football and express concern about FIFA’s motives, their grievances often overlook the reality of modern sports. Over the last five decades, sports have increasingly become about big money and mass appeal. This transformation has created an environment where organizations are driven by revenue generation. FIFA, like any corporation, must serve its shareholders—here, the national associations that support President Gianni Infantino in exchange for financial returns.
The Argument for Entertainment in Football
There is no denying that the addition of musical guests and extravagant performances creates excitement and draws viewers far beyond the dedicated football fans. Some might argue that spectacles at sporting events, such as the Super Bowl halftime show, are successful marketing strategies that generate interest, but it is essential to assess whether this approach truly benefits the sport. Can flashy performances prolong a football fan’s interest beyond what they are genuinely passionate about—the game itself?
The reality is that while promotional tactics can attract attention, they might not result in more devoted fans. Instead, they cater primarily to casual viewers who tune in sporadically, a point that my colleague Luis Miguel Echegaray notes. What remains crucial is ensuring that the essence of the sport is not lost in the quest for revenue. After all, this is football, revered by millions worldwide for its rich history and tactical complexity.
Respecting the Game’s Structure
One of the cornerstones of football’s allure lies in its structure and play rhythm. Professional athletes have conditioned their bodies and minds for specific routines that include rigid breaks. Therefore, any alteration to halftime’s duration could jeopardize players’ performance and disrupt the spirit of the game. During the 2024 Copa America final, a halftime adjustment extended by fans’ performances resulted in complaints from coaches, who insisted that athletes need a reliable structure rather than distractions that could impede their focus.
It is imperative that FIFA honors the traditions that have defined football for generations. The 15-minute halftime break is not just a “tradition” but a part of the sport’s physical framework. Professional players are used to this timing, and altering it could lead to less-than-ideal outcomes, risking their performance and the quality of the game. If FIFA wishes to host a halftime festival with renowned artists and spectacular performances, they must adhere to this vital rule about time constraints.
Redefining Halftime Without Compromising Integrity
A compromise must be reached where artistic performances can coexist with the game without overshadowing its integrity. Creative measures might include compact shows or staging performances in less disruptive spaces, allowing spectators to enjoy the entertainment while ensuring a swift transition back to the action on the pitch. One idea might involve artists utilizing platforms that don’t encroach upon the players’ space or hamper their routines.
The notion of extending halftime shows to rival their NFL counterparts is not just impractical; it opens a Pandora’s box that could interrupt the rhythm of the beautiful game. Football is not built upon the same stop-and-start mechanics as American football, making the introduction of lengthy breaks unsuitable. The potential for beautiful and engaging performances exists, but they should always work within the boundaries of the sport’s regulations—celebration and entertainment ought to enhance, not detract from, the main event: the football match.
Preserving the Essence of Football in the Age of Commercialization
Football holds a remarkable place in the hearts of many, representing a source of joy, culture, and community. While the industry undergoes significant transformation, both in terms of marketing practices and audience reach, it is critical to remember what makes it special. This balancing act between evolution and preservation will define the future of football as it navigates the choppy waters of commercialization.
Those who yearn for a return to the “good old days” must accept that change is inevitable. But change should not come at the cost of core values that make football what it is today. As we embrace new opportunities for growth, it’s essential to root our decisions in respect for the sport’s historical significance and athletic integrity. Embracing entertainment should enhance the spectacle of football, but never at the expense of the athletes who give their all on the pitch.