Soccer Fans Fear The World Cup Is Becoming More Like The Superbowl

BusinessSportsMoneySoccer Fans Fear The World Cup Is Becoming More Like The SuperbowlBySimon Chadwick ,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Professor of AfroEurasian Sport, geopolitical of sport specialist.Follow AuthorMay 19, 2026, 03:08am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - NOVEMBER 18: Ricardo Pepi #9 of the United States controls the ball during the 2024 Concacaf Nations League Quarterfinals second leg match between Jamaica and the United States at Citypark on November 18, 2024 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Joe Puetz/ISI Photos/Getty Images)Getty ImagesU.S. international soccer player Ricardo Pepi helpfully explained recently that the World Cup is not the same as the Superbowl.He’s right.For a start, this year’s Superbowl had Bad Bunny and Green Day appear during the half-time show whereas the World Cup this summer will see Shaquira and BTS performing.The socio-demographics of those who watch the two events differs and domestic politics formed a significant backdrop to this year’s American football spectacle, suitably illustrated by Donald Trump’s criticisms of the Puerto Rican rapper.But FIFA has a bigger, more diverse global constituency to think about hence its half time show roster has a broader appeal and will no doubt be much less contentious.Halftime differencesThe differences don’t end there.A Superbowl halftime lasts for thirty minutes and is renowned for the plethora of music superstars that have performed during its intervals.MORE FOR YOUThe likes of Michael Jackson, Prince, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift count among the number who have appeared at America’s showcase event, but this will be the first time FIFA has staged this kind of show at a World Cup.Soccer’s halftime break – no quarters in this sport – is fifteen minutes, although when the sport first began to codify in the late 19th centur...