Lead singer of The Cure Robert Smith kicked off the FIFA World Cup Final Show, which will feature live music MadonnaBTS, Justin Bieber and more.
“The point isn't really about who picks or plays, it's about #mugwank ideas for the final showdown of the World Cup,” Smith, 67, said on Instagram on Thursday, July 16.
Ahead of the much-anticipated July 9 match between Argentina and Spain at Metlife Stadium, New Jersey, the singer teased FIFA's press release describing the Halftime Show as a “horrific spectacle” that will “celebrate football, music and the values we share, to ensure a legacy beyond the final whistle.”
Smith added his own unique caption, writing, “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH…”
Robert Smith of The Cure
SUZANNE CORDEIRO/AFP via Getty ImagesThe singer tagged his post with “bread and circuses” – a political metaphor for mass appeal – and “#MUGWANK” “#pleasejustf***off” to make his disdain undeniable.
In a second post, Smith clarified that he did not offend the players who signed up to sing during the show – he simply objected to the idea of an event involving the President of FIFA. Gianni Infantino and the President of the United States Donald Trump giving the World Cup trophy to the winning team.
“Sadly, there aren't enough A's for 'ARGH' to follow,” he laughed.
FIFA announced in May that Coldplay's Chris Martin had organized a World Cup Half-Final Show featuring Madonna, 67, BTS and Shakira to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise $100 million to provide educational opportunities and access to soccer training for children around the world.
“Performing a World Cup final to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund means a lot to me,” Madonna said at the time. “Without education, children are deprived of opportunity before they even have a chance. Every child deserves access to quality learning – because education increases opportunities and creates lasting change.”
Earlier this month, FIFA expanded its list of stars by adding Bieber, 32, a Nigerian songwriter. Burn Boydirector of the LA Philharmonic Gustavo Dudamel and viral sensation PS 22 Chorus.
Since releasing her debut album in 1983, Madonna has rarely stepped out of the public eye – and has never stopped delivering floor-filling pop hits. Born in Bay City, Michigan, in 1958, Madonna – whose full name is Madonna Louise Ciccone – began dancing at a young age after convincing her father to let her learn. […]
“The FIFA World Cup brings the world together like nothing else can,” Bieber, 32, said on July 8. “Thank you for being a part of this Halftime Show, and I'm so grateful to know that it's already helping to increase access to education for children around the world.”
Burna Boy added, “The FIFA World Cup is one of the few times that truly unites the world. Representing Africa in the first ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime show is a privilege and a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I feel honored to be a part of a game that not only celebrates football and culture but also helps create better opportunities for children around the world through education.”
FIFA has also confirmed that the Halftime Show will feature performances from The Muppets and actors from Sesame Street.
