No, the FIFA World Cup does not have a half-time show like the Super Bowl or other major entertainment-focused sporting events. Here’s why and what happens during half-time at the World Cup:
1. Focus on Football
- The World Cup is primarily a football (soccer) tournament, and FIFA prioritizes the sport itself over entertainment spectacles.
- The break between halves is used for players to rest, receive tactical instructions from coaches, and prepare for the second half.
2. Half-Time Duration
- The half-time break in a World Cup match lasts 15 minutes, as per the Laws of the Game set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB).
- This short duration doesn’t allow for elaborate performances or shows.
3. Opening and Closing Ceremonies
- While there is no half-time show, the World Cup does feature opening and closing ceremonies at the start and end of the tournament.
- These ceremonies often include musical performances, cultural displays, and celebrations of the host country’s heritage.
4. Entertainment Around Matches
- Some World Cup matches may feature pre-match or post-match entertainment, such as musical performances or cultural displays, but these are not as elaborate as a half-time show.
- For example, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar featured performances by artists like Shakira and BTS’s Jungkook during the opening ceremony and final.
5. Comparison to Other Events
- The Super Bowl in the United States is known for its extravagant half-time shows, but this is a cultural difference. The Super Bowl is as much an entertainment event as it is a sports event, while the World Cup remains focused on the football itself.
Conclusion:
The World Cup does not have a half-time show. Instead, the 15-minute break is reserved for players and coaches to regroup and strategize. However, fans can enjoy cultural and musical performances during the opening and closing ceremonies of the tournament.