Madonna, Shakira and BTS will co-headline the first ever World Cup halftime show.
Coldplay singer Chris Martin has curated the lineup for the historic event, which will take place at halftime during the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
On Instagram, the announcement read: “Madonna, Shakira and BTS will co-headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
“Curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin and produced by Global Citizen, the show will raise funds for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, improving access to quality education and football for children around the world.”
In the announcement video, Chris was joined by beloved Sesame Street duo Elmo and Cookie Monster, as well as The Muppets legends Kermit The Frog and Miss Piggie.
After the Viva La Vida singer caught a football, Elmo quipped that the game isn’t played “with your hands”.
He asked: “Elmo, I need to ask your help with something.”
Elmo noted he’s “always happy to help”, and Chris added: “Well, this year for the first time, there’s a halftime show at the World Cup Final!”
Elmo appeared excited, only to ask what a halftime show actually means.
Chris explained: “Well, I’m glad you asked. It’s where people get together and there’s singing, and there’s dancing, and there’s music.
“It’s a chance to show how amazing all different kinds of humans are. And monsters, aliens – it’s one big family, really.”
Chris asked Elmo’s help finding “some giant stars” to play at the event.
Elmo immediately replied: “How about Madonna? Elmo loves Madonna!”
Cookie Monster appeared and suggested Kpop icons BTS, who Elmo immediately got on FaceTime to secure the booking.
With Chris looking for “one more big star”, Miss Piggie entered the skit and offered her own services for the performance.
The Coldplay star explained that the show was all about “togetherness”, while Kermit asked if there would be any “surprises”.
Chris promised there would, which was Animal’s cue to appear and ask for Shakira to be part of the lineup.
Elmo was straight on the phone, saying: “Shakira’s in and she’s bringing cookies!”
The three acts will take to the stage during the FIFA World Cup Final on July 19.
