“U2 is absolutely one of the coolest and creative contemporary bands in the world, and none enjoy greater worldwide appeal,” Fox Sports Chairman David Hill said. “It is a privilege to broadcast our third Super Bowl and I’m sure that U2 will provide our global audience a championship caliber performance.”

“The E*Trade Super Bowl halftime show is an important part of the Super Bowl and one of the most widely viewed entertainment events of the year,” said NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue. “This year’s show will take on new meaning in light of recent world events. We are pleased that the spectacular talent of U2 will become part of our Super Bowl halftime tradition.”

This year’s game will be televised live on Fox to an expected 130 million viewers in the United States and 800 million viewers worldwide.

Clear Channel Entertainment, the promoter of U2’s tour, is producing the halftime extravaganza.