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Liam Gallagher Says World Cup Halftime Show Was ‘Like a Bad Trip’

The inaugural FIFA World Cup halftime show faces heavy criticism and viral backlash following a star-studded performance featuring BTS, Justin Bieber, and others.

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Velocity

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The brief

FIFA broke tradition during the 2026 World Cup final, implementing a 30-minute halftime break featuring a performance by Madonna, Shakira, BTS, and Justin Bieber. The show also included appearances by the Muppets and was attended by high-profile guests including Tom Cruise, David and Victoria Beckham, and Matt Damon. Reports indicate that the performers involved received no performance fee.

Coverage from outlets including Vulture, The Hollywood Reporter, and The New Yorker highlights a polarized reception. Liam Gallagher and Robert Smith have offered negative assessments of the show, while Wayne Rooney’s reaction has circulated on social media. Some reports characterize the performance as "glib" and "absurd," noting a perception that the production felt overly Americanized.

Conversely, streaming data from Yahoo indicates a 240% increase for Justin Bieber's song "Everything Hallelujah" following the event. Attention now shifts to the long-term impact on the FIFA World Cup brand and potential future shifts in entertainment policy for the tournament. Commentary surrounding the logistics of the backstage environment and the rumored feud between Madonna and Justin Bieber remains a point of interest for ongoing coverage.

Synthesized by PULSE from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: all claims supported by sources Updated 89d ago.

Quick answers

Who performed at the World Cup halftime show?

The lineup included Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber, and the Muppets.

Were the performers paid by FIFA?

Reports state that the artists involved did not receive a performance fee.

What is the primary criticism of the show?

Coverage notes critiques regarding the show's perceived "absurd" and "unsubtle" nature, with some sources labeling it too American.

Coverage (16)

Topics

FIFA World Cup Madonna Shakira Justin Bieber BTS

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