Noel Gallagher on why he won’t be watching the Chris Martin-curated World Cup halftime show

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Noel Gallagher has never been one to hold back his opinions, and the former Oasis guitarist has now shared his thoughts on the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup Final halftime show being curated by Chris Martin. While excitement continues to build around the groundbreaking entertainment spectacle, Gallagher made it clear that he is unlikely to tune in when the show finally takes place.

The halftime show, which is being developed with the involvement of FIFA, Global Citizen, and Martin, is expected to bring some of the world’s biggest music stars together during the 2026 World Cup Final. The concept has generated widespread discussion because it will mark the first time a FIFA World Cup Final features a Super Bowl-style halftime performance.

However, Gallagher appears less interested in the musical side of the event and more focused on the football itself.

Speaking candidly about the plans, the outspoken rocker questioned the connection between the performers and the sport. “They’re not really football people who are performing anyway, are they?” Gallagher remarked, suggesting that the entertainment element may not appeal to traditional football supporters.

The comment reflects a broader debate that has emerged among fans since FIFA announced the halftime show. Supporters of the idea believe it will help the World Cup reach even larger global audiences and create a memorable cultural moment. Critics, meanwhile, worry that football’s biggest match could become overshadowed by celebrity performances and commercial entertainment.

Gallagher has long positioned himself as a football purist. A devoted supporter of Manchester City, he has often spoken passionately about preserving the traditions and atmosphere that make the sport unique. For many fans who share that viewpoint, the focus of a World Cup Final should remain firmly on the players and the action on the pitch.

Meanwhile, Martin has presented a very different vision. The Coldplay frontman reportedly sees the halftime show as more than just entertainment. According to organizers, the project is intended to celebrate unity, culture, and global community while drawing attention to important causes, including education initiatives for children around the world.

The contrast between Martin’s ambitious vision and Gallagher’s skepticism highlights the different ways people view the intersection of sport and entertainment. While one sees an opportunity to create a global cultural event, the other remains unconvinced that such additions are necessary for football’s grandest stage.

Despite Gallagher’s reservations, anticipation for the show continues to grow. Rumors have linked several major international artists to the event, though FIFA has yet to confirm a final lineup. Fans around the world are already speculating about who might join Martin in delivering a performance watched by hundreds of millions of viewers.

Whether Gallagher ultimately changes his mind remains to be seen. For now, he appears content to focus on the football rather than the festivities surrounding it. His comments may spark debate among supporters, but they also reflect a sentiment held by many traditional fans who believe the game itself should remain the star attraction.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup Final continues, one thing is certain: the halftime show is already generating headlines long before a single note has been played.

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