FIFA may have landed themselves in hot water with the International Football Association Board following the half-time performance that took place during the Club World Cup final. Football’s governing body did its utmost to make the finale of the competition as grandiose as possible, including a pre-game performance by Robbie Williams, the usual individual player entrances, and a pre-match introduction from legendary boxing announcer Michael Buffer.
There was also the introduction of a half-time show – a staple of American sports events made famous by the Super Bowl. And while its addition received mixed reviews from fans on social media, it has also possibly given FIFA another headache, after the mid-game showcase broke one clear IFAB law.
FIFA Break IFAB Law With Length of Half-Time Show
The show lasted more than 24 minutes
The half-time show was a star-studded affair, featuring artists including Doja Cat, reggaeton star J Balvin, Tems, Emmanuel Kelly, and a surprise appearance by Coldplay. However, with so much going on, the performance exceeded its allotted time slot.
Law 7 of IFAB’s rules states: “Players are entitled to an interval at half-time, not exceeding 15 minutes. A short drinks break (which should not exceed one minute) is permitted at the interval of half-time in extra time. Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval and it may be altered only with the referee’s permission.”
The total duration of the half-time show clocked in at 24 minutes and six seconds, well over the 15-minute window given to players to rest during the interval.
At the time of writing, FIFA have not responded to the infringement, and it is not yet known whether or not they will face a sanction for the transgression.
The length of the half-time show certainly didn’t help endear it to most viewers, with many believing it felt out of place at a football game. The sentiment was summed up by former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson, who took to social media to say:
“People of America. So you know. Half time at a football match is for a pie. Not singing.”
