BBC and ITV reject showing World Cup half-time performance on TV

The BBC is planning not to broadcast the World Cup final's half-time entertainment, only showing the production through its digital platforms.

Rather than broadcasting the musical performances during the main television coverage, the corporation intends to maintain its traditional approach of having pundits analyse the opening 45 minutes.

Alan Shearer, Cesar Azpilicueta, Olivier Giroud and Wayne Rooney will be among those providing expert analysis for viewers.

Whilst no definitive decision has been confirmed, those wishing to view the concert will likely need to access BBC digital services instead.

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The star-studded interval entertainment at MetLife Stadium will feature performances from Shakira, Madonna and South Korean pop sensation BTS.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino has pushed for the spectacle to emulate the famous Super Bowl half-time show that draws millions of viewers annually.

However, British broadcasters appear reluctant to prioritise the musical showcase over football-focused content, according to The Times.

The entertainment segment could see an extension beyond the standard 15-minute interval, with the exact duration remaining unclear.

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Broadcasters have yet to receive confirmation of the performance length, with speculation suggesting it could run anywhere between 11 and 25 minutes.

At the Club World Cup final last year between PSG and Chelsea, the half-time show lasted just over 24 minutes.

Coldplay were previously confirmed as the headline act for the World Cup final, but the performance is expected to feature a host of global stars.

The full line-up emerged in an unusual announcement video posted to the official social media account of Sesame Workshop, featuring Coldplay frontman Chris Martin alongside Elmo.

Shakira's inclusion carries special significance given her enduring association with football's biggest tournament.

Her 2010 anthem Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) remains one of the most recognisable World Cup songs ever recorded.

The Colombian star is also set to release a new song for this year's competition titled "Dai Dai."

Madonna will bring decades of pop history to the event.

The 66-year-old remains one of the most influential artists in music, more than four decades after launching her recording career.

Also joining the show are BTS, whose global popularity is expected to attract enormous attention from fans around the world.

The Korean supergroup appeared via video call in the announcement, confirming their participation in what is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious entertainment productions in football history.

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