11-minute World Cup final half-time show defended by events boss

• FIFA has confirmed an 11-minute half-time show for the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.
• The performance is set to feature global artists including Madonna, Shakira, and Justin Bieber.
• This show will extend the half-time interval beyond the standard 15 minutes, a move that has drawn both criticism and support.
• Michael Gietzen, CEO of Identity, defended the extension, arguing it prevents “wasting the moment” and acknowledges the final as a significant cultural event.
• ITV will broadcast the half-time show in full, and a separate closing ceremony will include performances from Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams, and Jennifer Hudson.

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Events boss defends Fifa over extended World Cup half-time show