Wayne Rooney has been tipped to commentate on the next Eurovision Song Contest after delivering a brutally honest verdict on the World Cup final's first-ever halftime show. The former England captain did not mince his words when asked about the star-studded performance during Spain and Argentina's showdown in New Jersey.
Rooney's blunt review
Standing alongside Joe Hart and Micah Richards, the BBC pundits were asked by presenter Gabby Logan what their highlight of the 11-minute show was. 'I'll be honest, mine was when it finished,' Rooney said, drawing nervous looks from his colleagues. 'I like a lot of them artists but I thought it was crap,' he continued. 'It just didn't get me going and I wanted the football to come back on. I like Burna Boy, I like Bieber, I like Shakira, but that was too flat.'
Social media reaction
Viewers praised Rooney's honesty on social media. Political candidate Count Binface posted on X: 'Wayne Rooney to be new BBC commentator for Eurovision. #VoteBinface.' User Rosie responded, 'get it in the manifesto,' while Ron questioned, 'Omg… can you imagine?' Ian argued that Rooney's comments were the 'best bit of the entire programme.'
Colleagues' reactions
Micah Richards, visibly stunned by Rooney's remarks, described him as 'miserable' after previously praising Shakira and Burna Boy's performance. Laughing at the exchanges, Gabby Logan said: 'I'll tell you what else you get on the BBC: honest reviews.'
Halftime show details
The halftime show, curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, was extended from the traditional 15-minute break to over 27 minutes for the first time. It featured Madonna being driven onto the pitch by Brazil legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, as well as surprise appearances from characters of The Muppets and Sesame Street. Actors Tom Cruise and Timothée Chalamet also appeared before kick-off. The show also included performances by Robbie Williams, Justin Bieber, and BTS.
Divisive format
With halftime entertainment being a staple of major US sporting events like the Super Bowl, the format proved divisive among fans. On ITV, Roy Keane claimed the show had been 'a bit of an anti-climax,' but added: 'It's always nice to see Shakira.'
Charity purpose
The show supported the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise $100 million (£75 million) to improve access to education and football for children worldwide.
Viewing figures
An average of over 12 million watched the World Cup final in the UK, with BBC One drawing 9.7 million viewers and ITV1 attracting 2.4 million.
