World Cup Final Faces Backlash for Breaking Tradition with U.S. Anthem and Halftime Show

The 2026 North American World Cup final is facing criticism for turning into an American-style show that breaks away from the unique traditions of soccer.
The controversy stems from the inclusion of the U.S. national anthem—despite the U.S. not being one of the finalists—and an unprecedented, large-scale halftime performance during the match between Argentina and Spain.
According to reports from outlets including the BBC, the ceremony for the final, scheduled for July 20 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, includes the singing of the U.S. national anthem.
The U.S. anthem is set to be performed just before kickoff, with singer Jennifer Hudson slated to perform it.
Typically, in national team soccer matches, including the World Cup, only the anthems of the two competing nations are played.
With no schedule announced for the anthems of co-hosts Mexico and Canada, the addition of the U.S. anthem is considered highly unusual.
The scale of the event, which is reminiscent of the Super Bowl—the championship game of the NFL—has also come under fire.
The final will feature performances by global pop stars, including BTS, Shakira, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, and Nicole Scherzinger.
In addition, a massive halftime show and commemorative event will take place, featuring Hollywood actor Tom Cruise and popular YouTuber IShowSpeed.
To accommodate these performances, organizers have significantly extended the standard 15-minute halftime break to approximately 25 to 26 minutes.
(Photo: Provided by FIFA, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.