BBC and ITV forced to make TV coverage change for World Cup final after FIFA rule break

The BBC and ITV have been forced to make a coverage change for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final following a rule modification by football's governing body. FIFA has confirmed that the half-time show will last 25 minutes, requiring the broadcasters to spend more time in the studio with pundits for the final on Sunday night.

An 11-minute Super Bowl-style show will take place during the interval at New York New Jersey Stadium. FIFA has confirmed that there will be a 15-minute half-time break followed by the planned 11-minute performance. The show will be co-headlined by Madonna, Shakira and K-pop boy band BTS.

However, this move represents a significant extension to the 15-minute break stipulated in football's laws. The laws of the game governed by the International Football Association Board state that players are entitled to a half-time break not exceeding 15 minutes, and it may be altered only with the referee's permission.

Both UK rights holders have decided to broadcast the show in full because with the requirements to set up and remove the stage from the pitch, they anticipate having sufficient time to analyse the game as well. FIFA held a similar half-time show at last year's Club World Cup final at the same venue, which led to a total break of 24 minutes.

While some observers have criticised the move, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has described the display as a groundbreaking spectacle that will celebrate football music and our shared values ensuring a legacy that transcends the final whistle. The governing body confirmed the show will be curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay.

Michael Gietzen, chief executive officer of Identity, defended FIFA's decision, stating that FIFA is right to extend half-time and people complaining are missing the point. He added that a World Cup final isn't most of the time, acknowledging that while football has its own rhythm and rules, special occasions warrant different treatment.