The first ever World Cup halftime show featured some of the biggest artists in the world, but there were also a few special guests who made an appearance.
While Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and BTS headlined the show, other big names in pop culture also had their moments in the sun. Whether it was two of the biggest soccer players in the sport’s history, or the most popular fictional coach in soccer, there was a guest for everyone watching.
The World Cup halftime show had elements of a Super Bowl halftime show, which has made it a habit of including surprise guests in its performance. Here’s a look at who made special appearances at MetLife Stadium during the halftime show.
World Cup halftime show guests
Ronaldo and Ronaldinho
Madonna opened the halftime show coming out through a tunnel at MetLife Stadium, and she had two special guests helping her get to the field. Brazilian legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho were in the drivers seat of Madonna’s vehicle and were front and center to begin the show.
Madonna opens up the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show, joined by Brazilian legends Ronaldinho and Ronaldo ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/yOV0B9WVVN
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026
The Muppets
Early in the show, the Muppets joined conductor Gustavo Dudamel and his orchestra for a cover of “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes. That then gave way to mimicking Norway’s iconic rowing celebration, as the Muppets participated in the action.
The Muppets joined in on the orchestral performance of ‘Seven Nation Army’ at the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show 🔥 pic.twitter.com/oNym0d2EKZ
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026
Norway’s Viking Row makes its way to the FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show 🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/gHt83uKy5X
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026
Additionally, near the end of the show, Kermit, Miss Piggy and Count Von Count also made an appearance.
Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and Count Von Count during the World Cup halftime show. pic.twitter.com/2yGwNNevNQ
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) July 19, 2026
Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso
Jason Sudeikis’s popular TV character Ted Lasso has helped grow soccer in America over the past few years, so it’s not a surprise that he made an appearance. Alongside Lasso was his assistant coach Willis Beard, played by actor Brendan Hunt, as the two introduced Justin Bieber to the stage in a unique fashion.
🚨 Ted Lasso and Coach Beard sub on @justinbieber at the FIFA World Cup Halftime Show 🔥 pic.twitter.com/iqBpZBGEwp
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026
While Lasso and Beard didn’t perform, there appearance was a nod to fans who may have gotten into soccer after watching the show.
