Jul 15, 2026 12:17pm IST
Tom Cruise And IShowSpeed To Headline 2026 World Cup Final Closing Ceremony
Tom Cruise, IShowSpeed, Jennifer Hudson, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, and Nicole Scherzinger are officially locked in to lead the pre-match festivities for the 2026 World Cup Final. FIFA confirmed the star-studded lineup on July 14, announcing that the entertainers will hit the stage at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 19, roughly 90 minutes before the opening whistle.
Hollywood icon Tom Cruise is scheduled to make a highly anticipated special appearance. While FIFA has kept the exact details of his stunt under wraps, the actor is renowned for his daredevil antics, leaving fans buzzing about what he might pull off. Joining Cruise on the pre-match bill is a wonderfully eccentric mix of global talent. Internet streaming sensation IShowSpeed will bring his signature high-octane energy to the stadium, taking the stage to perform his hit anthem "Champions". The lineup also boasts powerhouse vocals from English pop veteran Robbie Williams, Grammy-nominated songstress Nicole Scherzinger, and beloved Italian vocalist Laura Pausini.
Adding to the pre-game patriotism, EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson has been tapped to deliver a stirring rendition of the United States national anthem.
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In a massive departure from traditional football protocol, the entertainment will not stop when the referee blows the whistle for halftime. For the first time in World Cup history, fans will witness a full-scale halftime show. To accommodate this massive spectacle, the standard 15-minute intermission is reportedly being extended up to 30 minutes, allowing a spectacular collective of artists to deliver a historic 11-minute mega-performance. This blockbuster halftime stage will see pop titans Justin Bieber and Madonna perform alongside global K-pop phenomenon BTS, Afrobeats giant Burna Boy, and World Cup favorite Shakira. Adding to the incredibly unique lineup, the performance will also feature acclaimed conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the beloved Sesame Street muppets, and the talented youth of the PS22 Chorus performing alongside Coldplay.
While the entertainment lineup is spectacular, the ultimate focus remains on the pitch. The tournament has already seen its fair share of drama. Spain secured their coveted spot in the final after a thrilling semifinal victory over France. They now await their ultimate opponent, as football giants Argentina and England prepare to clash tonight to determine who will claim the second ticket to New York.
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