20.07.2026 08:00
The failure of TRT, Turkey's broadcaster of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, to air the halftime shows caused a wide reaction on social media. Broadcasting commercial breaks and studio commentary instead of the performances by world-renowned artists drew backlash from many viewers.
In the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, Spain and Argentina faced off, and the halftime broadcast choice of Turkey's broadcaster TRT became a topic of discussion.
While the halftime show performances were not shown, TRT's broadcast featured a commercial break and first-half analysis by sports commentators.
WORLD-FAMOUS NAMES TOOK THE STAGE
During the halftime of the final, a show featuring world-famous artists such as Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber, and BTS took place. However, viewers in Turkey could not watch these performances live due to TRT's broadcast choice.
BACKLASH ON SOCIAL MEDIA
TRT's decision not to broadcast the halftime show quickly became trending on social media. Many users reacted to the fact that the show, one of the most anticipated parts of the final, was not aired.
Comments included: "The world watched, we watched ads," "One of the most awaited moments of the final was not broadcast," "Why didn't TRT show the halftime show?" and "The show that millions were waiting for did not air."