How the World Cup Final Is Starting to Look a Lot Like the Super Bowl

The FIFA World Cup final has long been a spectacle, but this year it’s taking on an increasingly familiar tone – one that is more red carpet than pitch. The decision to feature a halftime show, à la the Super Bowl, has sparked debate among coaches and players alike.

Critics argue that introducing hydration breaks during matches disrupts the natural flow of the game, altering its very identity. England coach Thomas Tuchel was vocal in his disapproval, stating that these breaks “interrupt and change the identity of a football match much more than I thought.” Uruguay’s Marcelo Bielsa echoed similar sentiments, expressing concerns about how the four-quarter system affects the culturally constructed conception of the sport.

However, not all coaches are opposed to this new format. The U.S.’s Mauricio Pochettino has been seen using these breaks to his advantage, even going so far as to show players tactical adjustments on a laptop during a pre-tournament friendly in Charlotte. Players like Sergiño Dest seem more open-minded, seeing the breaks as an opportunity to settle and talk with teammates.

The introduction of halftime entertainment raises eyebrows, particularly given that international football rules explicitly state that halftime should not last longer than 15 minutes. A 25-minute break set up for the co-headliners Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, and BTS is a departure from tradition. Colombia’s Nestor Lorenzo aptly pointed out the potential consequences: players could cool down too much, affecting their fitness.

The introduction of championship rings for winning players is another curious move. While it may seem like a harmless gesture, it’s a nod to an American sporting tradition that FIFA is importing wholesale – along with its commercialism. This trend raises questions about what exactly is being preserved in the name of “modernization.” Is this just another example of FIFA chasing the almighty dollar, sacrificing the very essence of the sport in the process?

The World Cup has always been a celebration of football’s global appeal. But as it increasingly emulates American sports, one can’t help but wonder what’s being lost in translation. The introduction of halftime shows and championship rings may bring in more revenue, but at what cost? It seems that FIFA is willing to sacrifice the integrity of the game for the sake of entertainment – a slippery slope indeed.

As the sport continues down this path, it’s clear that FIFA’s priorities have shifted, and it’s no longer just about the beautiful game. The question remains: will we see more emphasis on spectacle over substance?