Fans watching the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show may have assumed the star-studded performers earned huge pay cheques.
According to E! News, that was not the case.
The outlet, citing Global Citizen x FIFA, reported that Shakira, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, Madonna, and BTS received no appearance fees for performing during the historic show.
Instead, FIFA and its partners covered the production and logistical costs of the performances.
The event followed a model similar to the NFL’s Super Bowl halftime show, where artists perform without receiving a traditional appearance fee.
The performers took the stage in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative that helps expand access to quality education and football for children around the world.
The fund also receives a $1 contribution from every ticket sold for FIFA tournaments.
Although the artists were not paid appearance fees, the halftime show gave them exposure before one of the largest television audiences in sports.
That kind of global visibility can lead to increased music streams, ticket sales and future commercial opportunities.
The halftime show took place on July 19 at MetLife Stadium before Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
It marked the first time a FIFA World Cup final featured a halftime entertainment show.
Shakira and Burna Boy performed the tournament’s official anthem, “Dai Dai.”
Justin Bieber, Madonna and BTS also appeared during the landmark production.