The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, to be played on Sunday, is expected to go down in history not only for the confrontation on the field, but also for an unprecedented innovation in the organization of the tournament.
According to television broadcast sources, the break between parts will last more than 15 minutes to make way for the first musical spectacle ever to be organized during a World Cup final.
It is reported that setting up the stage for the performance, which is expected to last about 11 minutes, will take approximately seven minutes, while dismantling it and preparing the field for the resumption of the match will require almost the same time.
According to IFAB rules, the break between halves should not exceed 15 minutes. However, the specific World Cup regulation only stipulates that footballers have a 15-minute interval, without clearly defining whether it can be extended for organizational reasons.
So far, FIFA has not provided an official clarification on the duration of the break and how the spectacle will be harmonized with the regulations in force.
Organizing an artistic performance at halftime of the final marks a historic moment for the World Cup, following the model of major American sporting events, such as the Super Bowl.
This year's World Cup has also brought other innovations, including mandatory hydration breaks and the awarding of championship rings to the tournament winners.
