When thinking about football, most fans picture thrilling goals, dramatic tackles, and the emotional rollercoaster of a 90-minute match. But in recent years, a new tradition has started to wedge its way into the beautiful game - elaborate half-time shows.
Once the realm of American sports like the Super Bowl, entertainment spectacles are becoming more common in football, such as during the FIFA Club World Cup or even select domestic fixtures. But the question remains: are they actually necessary?
At its core, football is about the sport. The half-time break exists for a very practical reason: to allow players to rest, hydrate, receive tactical adjustments, and prepare for the second half. For fans, it’s a chance to grab refreshments, stretch their legs, or, if watching from home, scroll through commentary, debates and twitter. Introducing a high-energy musical or dance performance during this short window can feel more like a commercial stunt than a meaningful contribution to the matchday experience.
Introducing a high-energy musical or dance performance during this short window can feel more like a commercial stunt than a meaningful contribution to the matchday experience.
That’s not to say entertainment doesn’t have a place in football. There’s merit in trying to evolve the game’s experience, particularly for younger or more casual viewers who are used to multimedia spectacles.
Broadcasters and organisers know they are competing with other sports and entertainment forms, and adding a performance could help keep engagement high. But the key issue is whether half-time shows actually add value to the experience, or if they’re just a distraction.
Unlike in American football, where half-time can last 30 minutes and the game is naturally punctuated by frequent breaks, football is prized for its continuous flow. A traditional 15-minute half-time isn’t long enough to comfortably fit a meaningful performance without disrupting the rhythm of the game or stretching the event unnecessarily. Attempting to cram a show into this timeframe often leads to rushed production, underwhelming acts, and little payoff.
Furthermore, there’s a cultural aspect to consider. Football has always been about community, passion, and authenticity. Fans come for the club, the players, and the sport. The risk of turning football into a spectacle-driven product is alienating the die-hard supporters who feel that these performances cheapen the experience. When entertainment starts to feel forced or commercialized, it undermines the organic atmosphere that makes football so special.
That said, there are moments where a half-time performance might make sense, season openers, finals, or special commemorative matches. These occasions are about more than just the game; they’re about celebration and storytelling. But these should be exceptions, not the rule.