The first-ever FIFA World Cup featured a halftime show with global stars, including Madonna, Shakira, and the group BTS. The 2026 World Cup final has always been the most significant sporting event, but this year it incorporated elements characteristic of the Super Bowl.
For the first time in tournament history, FIFA organized a special halftime show during the World Cup final match between Spain and Argentina, which was held at the New York New Jersey Stadium. This lineup of participants resembled a music festival more than a football match.
Even before the main performance began, the atmosphere at the stadium transformed into a global entertainment venue. IShowSpeed became the first content creator to perform at the World Cup halftime show, demonstrating changes in the world of entertainment. He was joined by Post Malone, Sway Lee, Nicole Scherzinger, 'Thee' Pussycatdoll, and Robbie Williams. Tom Cruise was also present, adding an unexpected Hollywood moment to the already packed list of artists.
The halftime show itself was quite massive. Madonna opened the program alongside football legends Ronaldo Nazário, known as R9, and Ronaldinho. This combination of two football icons and the 'Queen of Pop' created a unique spectacle. Madonna demonstrated a confidence that felt more like a statement of her appearance than just a halftime performance.
Next, the group BTS performed, presenting their signature energetic K-pop magic with the song 'Dynamite'. Their choreography was so continuous that it led spectators to speculate about hidden energy sources. Justin Bieber offered a completely different mood, performing an acoustic, softer, and more vulnerable set that aligns with his style. Shakira brought the expected Latin American energy, joining Burna Boy to perform the official World Cup anthem 'Dai Dai'. Furthermore, Chris Martin presented the magic of Coldplay, and conductor Gustavo Dudamel added orchestral drama.
In addition, Keromit Crab and the Muppets from Sesame Street appeared in the program. In an era where entertainment increasingly intertwines with sports, FIFA's bold decision to include a separate halftime show indicates that the future of major sporting events may require a rethinking of the approach.
An official representative of the National Media Authority (NMA) stated that the proposed restrictions, which prohibit children under 15 from independently creating social media accounts, are unlikely to have a significant impact on the rapidly growing content creator economy in the UAE.
Authorities believe these measures can promote safer participation in digital platforms with parental supervision while supporting the long-term development of the sector. Mohammed Al Zarouni, Director of Strategic Planning at NMA, told Khaleej Times that the law is primarily aimed at preventing the exploitation of children under 15.
He expressed his view that the changes would be positive because 'more young people can start using social media under the supervision of their parents.'
The proposed legislation is part of broader efforts to enhance child safety online and aligns with similar initiatives being implemented in countries such as Australia and certain European regions. Al Zarouni emphasized that the UAE is working to ensure its rules comply with international standards while considering feedback from parents and relevant bodies.
These statements were made at the TikTok UAE Forward event, attended by senior company executives in the region, as well as representatives from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) and the UAE government's Media Office. Mohammed Al Zarouni, Deputy General Manager of the Information and Digital Government Sector at TDRA, separately noted that the government's goal is to strike a balance between regulation and the further expansion of digital platforms.
He stated that there are legislative requirements that must be met and considers this the 'first line of defense.' He added that their task is to complement the growth occurring on digital platforms by ensuring mutual understanding between the government's need for societal safety and entrepreneurs using these platforms, while also helping to promote the growth of the platforms themselves.
Al Zarouni also noted that supporting reliable digital platforms will ultimately contribute to achieving the UAE's broader ambitions in the digital economy. According to a report presented at the event, TikTok contributed 1.1 billion AED in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UAE economy and supported approximately 7,000 jobs. Furthermore, it was found that over 70,000 small and medium-sized enterprises actively advertise on TikTok in the UAE, and more than 10,000 entrepreneurs, including 3,500 women and 1,400 Emiratis, reported starting their businesses through this platform.
Casa Umbral, a residence completely isolated and situated in a humid and lush tropical environment, was awarded the first prize in the single-family housing category during the most recent edition of the Regional Salons of Architecture and Urbanism.
This award was granted by the Colombian Society of Architects. The central concept of Casa Umbral is based on a clear and impactful premise: architectural access transcends the function of a mere door, transforming into a complete experience.
This entrance configures itself as a type of rite of passage that acquires a special meaning in this specific location, given that there are no established urban boundaries; it is the natural elements themselves that define the property limits.
Music has the ability to bring people closer. At the University of the People's Universities of China, young people from China, the United States, and the United Kingdom participated in a special choral exchange program.
Participants shared the stage, told stories, and found common ground thanks to the power of music. Beyond the performance itself, it became a moment of intercultural interaction where people from different backgrounds met, friendships began, and music served as a link between young hearts.
CGTN correspondent Wang Tao explores how a simple melody helped bring together youth from different countries. Furthermore, the organizers invite the audience to share their views on China by creating a video showcasing China through their own talent, creativity, or personal stories, using the hashtag #GenCoolChallenge.
