World Cup Halftime Show and New Traditions Stir Debate

For many American viewers, the World Cup final will take on a familiar look, resembling the traditional American football experience. This resemblance comes from FIFA incorporating a halftime show into the final, similar to the Super Bowl. While the Super Bowl halftime show often features major performances like those from Bad Bunny, the World Cup’s version is met with less enthusiasm.

This halftime show represents another move by FIFA that critics argue may alter the essence of the sport. Beginning with this tournament, hydration breaks have been officially instituted. FIFA had previously used ‘cooling breaks’ during extreme conditions, such as during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. However, this year’s decision required these hydration breaks to be part of every match, splitting the halves more like quarters.

Critics like England’s Thomas Tuchel and Uruguay’s Marcelo Bielsa argue that these mandated breaks disrupt the flow of the game. Tuchel noted that it ‘interrupts and changes the identity of a football match.’ Bielsa mentioned that dividing play into four parts affects the fundamental understanding of the sport. He felt it detracts from the game’s captivating nature.

Despite initial hesitations, some coaches adapted to the change. The U.S.’s Mauricio Pochettino used the breaks strategically, providing tactical guidance to players during a friendly match. U.S. player Sergiño Dest viewed the breaks positively, as opportunities for team discussions.

The new halftime will last around 25 minutes to accommodate performances by Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, and BTS. This extension goes against the international football rule of a 15-minute halftime. Set up for these acts demands extra time, potentially affecting player fitness as noted by Colombia’s Nestor Lorenzo during a previous tournament’s extended halftime.

This isn’t the first attempt at creating halftime shows in soccer. Events like last year’s Club World Cup and the Copa America final have also featured these interruptions, facing similar criticism about their impact on the game.

Adding to these changes, FIFA announced that winning players will now receive championship rings alongside the World Cup trophy and medals. This aligns with American sports traditions, further intertwining different sporting cultures.