The Cure’s Robert Smith Takes Aim at FIFA’s World Cup Final Half-Time Show: ‘Just F— Off’
The Cure frontman Robert Smith has sparked fresh debate ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after launching a blistering criticism of FIFA’s decision to stage the tournament’s first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show. In a series of posts shared on The Cure’s official Instagram account, the legendary musician made it clear that he has little enthusiasm for football’s biggest match adopting an entertainment format traditionally associated with American sports.
Smith’s strongest reaction came when he dismissed the concept with the blunt phrase, “please just f— off,” while also criticizing FIFA president Gianni Infantino. His post mocked FIFA’s description of the halftime event as a groundbreaking celebration of football and music, arguing instead that it represents an unnecessary distraction from the sport itself.
The halftime show, curated by Chris Martin, is scheduled to feature performances from global stars including Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and the K-pop group BTS during the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. The show is expected to extend the traditional 15-minute halftime interval, with broadcasters anticipating a break closer to 30 minutes.
After some fans interpreted his comments as an attack on the performers themselves, Smith returned to social media to clarify his position. He stressed that his criticism was aimed solely at the idea of introducing a halftime spectacle into football’s biggest event, not at the artists taking part. According to Smith, the issue is the growing commercialization of the sport rather than the musicians involved.
Smith’s remarks have resonated with many traditional football supporters who believe the World Cup final should remain focused on the match itself. Critics argue that extending halftime for a concert risks disrupting players’ rhythm and changing one of football’s longest-standing traditions. Others, however, welcome the innovation, saying it reflects the global appeal of both football and music while attracting new audiences.
FIFA has defended the decision, saying the halftime performance will help support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative designed to raise money for education and football opportunities for children around the world. Organizers have described the event as a celebration that combines sport, culture and entertainment on a global stage.
Whether fans embrace the concept or reject it, Smith’s outspoken criticism has added another layer of attention to an already historic occasion. As Argentina and Spain prepare to battle for football’s biggest prize, the halftime show has become almost as widely discussed as the match itself. With opinions sharply divided, FIFA’s bold experiment will be closely watched and could influence how future World Cup finals are presented for years to come.
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