FIFA ‘to lengthen’ World Cup final half-time to 20-30 minutes for multi-artist show | OneFootball

FIFA is considering lengthening the World Cup final half-time to between 20 and 30 minutes to accommodate an extended artists’ show. The regulation interval is 15 minutes.

The concert is planned in the style of the Super Bowl, with Shakira, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, Madonna and K-pop group BTS performing. The show will be overseen by Chris Martin of Coldplay, the artistic director.

The Times reports that the break would run to 30 minutes, double the duration set by the Laws of the Game, and notes the Club World Cup final interval was close to 25 minutes.

FIFA has announced an 11-minute performance, described as a memorable celebration blending sport, music and global influence. The Athletic, and likewise the BBC, report that multiple sources suggest the half-time could last at least 20 minutes.

The Americanisation of football continues, with new advertising spots disguised as cooling breaks at this World Cup splitting matches into four quarters. A longer interval would also suit a crowd that has paid a hefty sum to attend the final.

Source: L'Équipe