FIFA President Gianni Infantino Open to Drake Performing at 2026 World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed openness to the idea of Canadian rapper Drake performing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

During an interview, host Rosanna Scotto floated the idea of Drake headlining the tournament’s halftime show, referencing his ongoing rivalry with Kendrick Lamar, who performed at Super Bowl LIX.

“I have a great idea for you for the halftime,” Scotto said to Infantino.

“Drake. Because you were at the Super Bowl—Kendrick Lamar dissed him at the Super Bowl.”

Infantino, intrigued, responded, “So we can create a bit of a rivalry?”

“Yes,” Scotto replied enthusiastically.

“That’s a good idea,” Infantino said. “Actually, Drake was with us when we announced the host cities. I should have his number saved somewhere.”

While the World Cup has never had a halftime show, this edition is set to introduce one, marking a historic first for the tournament.

Scheduled for July 19, 2026, the World Cup final will take place at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, with Coldplay’s Chris Martin and Phil Harvey contributing to the event’s creative direction.

“I can confirm the first-ever half-time show at a FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey, in association with Global Citizen,” Infantino said during a press conference in Dallas on Wednesday (March 5). “This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world.”