*This content was translated by AI.
The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has drawn criticism for planning to extend the halftime of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, scheduled for the 20th (Korean time), at New Jersey Stadium in New York, USA, to as much as 30 minutes. The decision, made to accommodate a performance during halftime, is expected to provoke further controversy as it exceeds regulations set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and could potentially increase the risk of player injuries.
On the 15th (Korean time), British media outlet The Telegraph reported that "FIFA plans to extend the World Cup final halftime to up to 30 minutes, violating regulations once again," adding that "broadcaster networks are also preparing for a 30-minute halftime that includes pre-match analysis and the halftime show."
On the same day, British public broadcaster BBC estimated the final's halftime would last between 20 and 25 minutes. Immediately following the end of the first half, performances by BTS, Madonna, Shakira, and others are scheduled to run for 11 minutes. Considering the setup and teardown processes before and after the performance, local reports suggest the halftime could extend up to approximately 30 minutes.
The issue lies in the fact that soccer match halftimes are already regulated to not exceed 15 minutes — a rule established by IFAB, which sets the laws of the game. However, FIFA has decided to ignore this regulation and extend the halftime duration. This is not the first time; during last year's FIFA Club World Cup, FIFA also sparked controversy by extending the halftime to a full 24 minutes under the pretext of a halftime performance.
It is not merely a matter of extended match time. For players who have just completed the first half, a longer-than-usual halftime could negatively affect their second-half performance and may even lead to an increased risk of injury. IFAB has previously warned that "prolonged breaks during matches can have adverse effects on player protection and safety."
Moreover, FIFA had rejected South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL)'s 2021 proposal to extend halftime durations, citing IFAB's explanation as justification. Yet, in tournaments it organizes itself, FIFA has repeatedly violated regulations to extend halftimes.
The Telegraph stated, "Football is changing without any consultation. Matches are now being split into four quarters (with hydration breaks in the middle of each half), and a shocking 30-minute halftime for the World Cup final has suddenly been introduced." It further criticized, "Such shows only fuel FIFA's greed for money. The same motive likely explains why this World Cup is expanding to 48 teams, with a possibility of growing to 64 teams in four years."
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*This content was translated by AI.
