FIFA has officially revealed a blockbuster lineup for the closing ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, promising one of the biggest entertainment events in football history. The grand celebration will take place on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, just before the FIFA World Cup final.
The ceremony will mark the conclusion of the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Organizers have brought together Hollywood celebrities, internationally renowned musicians, and digital creators to deliver a spectacular show for millions of viewers worldwide.
The event will begin with Emmy Award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson, who will perform a special rendition of the United States national anthem ahead of the championship match.
FIFA has also confirmed performances by global music stars Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, and Nicole Scherzinger, who will headline the musical segment of the ceremony. The performances are expected to combine music, culture, and football in a celebration of the world’s biggest sporting event.
One of the biggest surprises is the inclusion of Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise alongside internet sensation IShowSpeed (Darren Watkins Jr.). Cruise is expected to appear in a cinematic post-match segment inspired by his memorable performance during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games closing ceremony.
Meanwhile, IShowSpeed will perform his popular track “World Cup (Champions)” from the official FIFA World Cup tournament album, highlighting FIFA’s efforts to connect with younger audiences through digital creators.
The inclusion of both traditional entertainment icons and social media personalities reflects FIFA’s strategy to appeal to fans across different generations and expand engagement beyond football.
The closing ceremony is scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. local time and will be broadcast live around the world. In the United States, viewers can watch on Fox Sports and Telemundo, while audiences in the United Kingdom can tune in via BBC and ITV.
The ceremony will serve as the final celebration before the world crowns the next FIFA World Cup champion.
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