Watch Coldplay & Others Perform at The FIFA World Cup Halftime Show

The FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, witnessed a historic halftime show that blended music and culture from around the world. As Chelsea secured a 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain, international music stars, including Coldplay, Doja Cat, J Balvin, and Tems, took to a uniquely elevated stage. This innovative setup, designed by Global Citizen and Coldplay's Chris Martin, was constructed high up in the stands to preserve the newly installed grass on the field and ensure seamless transitions between performances. The stage not only addressed logistical challenges but also created a visually stunning experience for the audience.

J Balvin kicked off the 15-minute performance with his electrifying hits, “Mi Gente” and “Reggaeton.” His energy set the tone for the night, supported by a vibrant ensemble of dancers and drummers that brought a piece of Colombia to the audience. Following him, Nigerian artist Tems captivated fans with her soulful rhythm and performance of “Love Me JeJe,” which added an African flair to the show. Tems moved gracefully across the stage, delivering her music with authenticity and passion.

Doja Cat’s performance of “Woman” was both a visual and auditory spectacle. Donning an outfit adorned in Swarovski crystals and styled with Adidas, she stood out against the backdrop, epitomizing a blend of contemporary fashion and music. Her commanding stage presence was further emphasized by intricate choreography that celebrated strength and femininity. Doja Cat, representing America, shared her excitement for being part of this global stage that united diverse cultures through music and lent her voice to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, aimed at enhancing access to education worldwide.

The climax of the halftime show was marked by Coldplay's surprise appearance. Joined by Emmanuel Kelly, Coldplay debuted “A Sky Full of Stars,” creating a moment of serenity and euphoria. Kelly, an Australian artist and the first differently-abled performer in the event’s history, delivered a powerful message of unity, emphasizing the capability of music to transcend barriers. As fireworks lit the sky, Kelly's heartfelt words resonated, “I'm so happy we're here together,” capturing the essence of camaraderie and togetherness that the show symbolized.

This event was not merely an entertainment spectacle but also a cultural and philanthropic milestone. As part of Global Citizen's initiative, one dollar from every ticket sold at the FIFA Club World Cup matches was pledged to their Education Fund. To date, ten million dollars have already been raised towards their $100 million target. The halftime show exemplified how music could act as a universal language, bridging continents and cultures, and showcasing artists from the Americas, Africa, Europe, and Oceania in a single cohesive performance. These efforts highlight FIFA and Global Citizen's commitment to using such a monumental platform not just for sport but for social impact, addressing issues like education which are pivotal in shaping the future.

Planning to continue this momentum, Global Citizen announced the partnership would extend into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ensuring further outreach and impact. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Final Halftime Show stood as more than just a halftime performance; it was an embodiment of global unity, cultural celebration, and a testament to the power of collaboration across borders. It marked the beginning of a new era where music and sports firmly intermingle with social change initiatives, transforming events into catalysts for positive global impact.