The Cure’s Robert Smith Criticizes World Cup Final Halftime Show
Robert Smith, the lead vocalist of The Cure, has criticized FIFA’s World Cup Final Halftime Show, which is set to include performances from Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, and others.
“The issue isn’t only about who is curating or performing; it’s about the ridiculous concept of a halftime show at a football World Cup final,” the 67-year-old singer expressed on Instagram on Thursday, July 16.
As the highly-anticipated match between Argentina and Spain approached on Sunday, July 9, at Metlife Stadium in New Jersey, Smith took aim at a FIFA press release that described the Halftime Show as a “revolutionary spectacle” that will “celebrate football, music, and shared values, leaving a legacy beyond the final whistle.”
He humorously noted, “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH…”
In his post, he used hashtags like “bread and circuses”—a political term referring to superficial populism—along with “#MUGWANK” and “#pleasejustf***off,” clearly expressing his disdain.
In a follow-up post, Smith clarified that his frustration was not directed at the performing artists, but rather at the prospect of FIFA President Gianni Infantino and U.S. President Donald Trump presenting the World Cup trophy to the winners.
“Unfortunately, there aren’t enough A’s left for the ‘ARGH’ that should follow,” he humorously added.
FIFA revealed in May that Chris Martin of Coldplay was curating the World Cup Final Halftime Show, which includes Madonna, 67, BTS, and Shakira; the show aims to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, targeting $100 million to enhance educational opportunities and football training for children globally.
“Performing at the World Cup final in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund holds significant importance for me,” Madonna stated. “Education is vital, and every child should have access to quality learning, as it can transform lives.”
Recently, FIFA expanded their lineup, adding Bieber, 32, Nigerian artist Burna Boy, L.A. Philharmonic conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and the viral PS 22 Chorus.
Since the launch of her debut album in 1983, Madonna has been a constant figure in pop culture, consistently delivering chart-topping hits. Born in Bay City, Michigan, in 1958, she convinced her father to let her start dancing as a child, which laid the foundation for her future career […]
“The FIFA World Cup unites the world like nothing else,” Bieber, 32, stated on July 8. “I’m thankful to be part of this Halftime Show, knowing it’s helping improve educational access for children globally.”
Burna Boy remarked, “The FIFA World Cup is one of the rare times when the world genuinely comes together. Representing Africa at this historic Halftime Show is an honor and a responsibility I take seriously. I’m proud to contribute to a performance that celebrates football and culture while also promoting educational opportunities for children worldwide.”
FIFA has confirmed that the Halftime Show will also see appearances by The Muppets and characters from Sesame Street.
