A Historic Halftime Show: J Balvin, Doja Cat, and Tems to Shine at the FIFA Club World Cup Final
The excitement surrounding the FIFA Club World Cup Final is about to reach new heights with the announcement that global music icons J Balvin, Doja Cat, and Tems will be performing during the inaugural halftime show. Scheduled to take place on July 13 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, this event marks a significant moment not just for football fans, but also for the intersection of sports and culture.
A Unique Collaboration
Produced by Global Citizen and curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay, the halftime performance promises to be a fantastic showcase of musical talent while raising essential awareness for crucial global issues. The show will be broadcast for free globally via DAZN.com, allowing fans from all corners of the world to be a part of this unique celebration.
The Goals Behind the Show
Global Citizen, known for its advocacy work, is aiming to use this halftime extravaganza as a platform to raise awareness and funding to combat extreme poverty globally. The performance is not just an artistic endeavor but a crucial step toward positive change.
Voices from the Artists
J Balvin expressed his excitement about the performance, stating, “From Medellín to MetLife — I’m honored to headline the first-ever halftime show of the FIFA Club World Cup final. It’s a historic moment, for me, for Latin culture, and for every kid who dreams big.” His connection to the event highlights the importance of representation and cultural milestones in the arts.
Similarly, Tems emphasized the unity that both music and football bring, declaring, “We’re going to bring the world together for a beautiful moment… to celebrate football and improve the lives of millions of children through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.” The sentiment shared by these artists underscores the event’s purpose beyond entertainment—it is a movement dedicated to social impact.
Previous Collaborations with Global Citizen
All three performers have a rich history with Global Citizen events. J Balvin has been part of four events, including notable performances during the pandemic like “One World: Together at Home” and “Global Goal: Unite for Our Future.” Doja Cat has also headlined significant Global Citizen concerts, including the 2024 Global Citizen Festival in Central Park. Tems showcased her talent at the Global Citizen Festival: Accra stage in Ghana in 2022. This background creates a sense of continuity and commitment among the artists toward social justice initiatives.
An Unprecedented Audience
Organizers are optimistic that July’s event will reach an unparalleled global audience, representing the largest viewership ever for a club football competition. This potential reach amplifies the impact of their message and initiatives, bringing more attention to the cause.
Supporting Education Through Music
The halftime show will also directly support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a project aimed at raising $100 million to ensure that children worldwide have access to quality education and football opportunities. A portion of the ticket sales from the FIFA Club World Cup matches will go toward this fund, creating a substantial financial backdrop for the initiative.
Words from Leadership
Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen, highlighted the importance of education in alleviating extreme poverty, saying, “To end extreme poverty, we need to ensure every child gets access to a quality education.” He emphasizes the collaboration between football and music as a powerful tool for change, urging fans to engage and support the cause.
The Grand Stage for Global Football
The FIFA Club World Cup itself will take place in the U.S. from June 14 through the final on July 13, featuring the world’s top 32 club teams competing across 12 venues in 11 cities. This summer showcase not only promises thrilling matches but also a platform for discussions on important global issues.
Collaborative Production Efforts
Global Citizen has partnered with Live Nation, Done+Dusted, and DPS to produce the halftime show. Directed by Hamish Hamilton, with contributions from prominent executive producers, this collaboration promises to create a memorable and visually stunning experience for viewers and attendees alike.
Looking Ahead
In an exciting expansion, Global Citizen will also be producing the first-ever halftime show for the FIFA World Cup Final set for July 19, 2026, in New Jersey. This continues the trend of merging high-profile sporting events with significant cultural and social messages, aiming to make entertainment a powerful vessel for change.
The upcoming halftime show at the FIFA Club World Cup Final is poised to be more than just an entertainment segment; it’s a celebration of music, football, and the impact that both can have on global issues. With J Balvin, Doja Cat, and Tems at the helm, it promises to be a historic event worth tuning into.
