Kerala Schools Closing on July 20 for FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
Indiadailyupdate.com – The Kerala government has announced that July 20, 2026, will be a school holiday in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026. This decision was made to accommodate students eager to watch the highly anticipated final match between Argentina and Spain, scheduled to begin at approximately 12:30 am IST. The match will take place in New York at the New Jersey Stadium, marking the first time the World Cup features a halftime show curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
Why the Decision Was Made
Chief Minister VD Satheesan’s office confirmed that exams already planned will proceed as usual, ensuring minimal disruption to academic schedules. The move follows a request from football enthusiasts, with students expressing a desire to stay up late and view the match. General Education Minister N. Samsudheen shared the news on social media, captioning it with a playful message:
“Happy now, children?”
Support and Criticisms
CPI(M) leader and former education minister V Sivankutty endorsed the holiday, arguing that the late-night match would make it challenging for students to attend classes on Monday. He proposed that a Saturday holiday be repurposed as a working day to compensate for the lost academic time. UDF leaders also supported the idea, while some critics called for a full government holiday. Sports Minister OJ Janish acknowledged the appeal of a complete break but noted logistical challenges in implementing it last-minute.
The halftime show, part of the 2026 World Cup’s unique format, will feature performances by Shakira, Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, and Gustavo Dudamel, lasting around 11 minutes. This addition aims to enhance the viewing experience for fans worldwide, including those in Kerala.
