Robert Smith Does Not Have World Cup Halftime Show Fever
Stereogum • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has seen an unprecedented level of Americanization, including hydration breaks doubling as ad breaks and a Super Bowl-style halftime show.
- The final match on Sunday at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium will feature Spain versus defending champions Argentina, with a halftime show curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin.
- The halftime show lineup includes Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, and Burna Boy, aiming to celebrate football, music, and shared values, according to FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
- The Cure's Robert Smith expressed strong disapproval of the halftime spectacle, reflecting broader sentiments of annoyance toward the event's pageantry.
- The World Cup Final kicks off at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday, with the halftime show expected to begin shortly after 4 p.m. ET.
