Wayne Rooney delivers a blunt reaction to FIFA’s first-ever halftime show at the 2026 World Cup final, which took place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, between Spain and Argentina. After a scoreless first half, the tournament’s halftime featured an 11-minute, star-studded entertainment segment broadcast globally. Reported performers and acts included Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira (with Burna Boy linked to the presentation), BTS, The Muppets, and appearances involving Brazilian football figures such as Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, alongside other staged elements and additional music guests across the show.
Rooney, speaking as a BBC pundit after the match, is quoted saying his “highlight” was “when it finished.” Despite liking several of the artists personally, he describes the halftime show as “crap,” adding that it did not “get me going” and that it felt “flat,” with viewers and social media users amplifying his comment. Other pundits mentioned different highlights, reflecting a mixed overall reception. Multiple outlets report that Rooney’s remarks quickly became a viral talking point during and after the BBC broadcast.
