FIFA has announced the lineup for the 2026 World Cup closing ceremony, and it will feature several well-known performers and a special appearance by Tom Cruise, according to Billboard.
Jennifer Hudson is set to sing a special version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before the final begins on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. FIFA said the pre-kickoff event will celebrate the journey of the 48 teams that competed in the tournament.
Also scheduled to take part are Nicole Scherzinger, Laura Pausini, Robbie Williams and streamer IShowSpeed. Scherzinger said in an Instagram Story that she was grateful to be part of the event, while Pausini said she was proud to represent an Italian voice in the global celebration.
Heimo Schirgi, COO of FIFA World Cup 2026, said the closing ceremony is meant to echo the opening celebrations and bring the tournament “full circle” through music, culture and football before the championship match. Billboard also reported that the World Cup final halftime show will feature BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna and Shakira, with Chris Martin curating the performance.
The tournament is nearing the end of its 104 matches, with Argentina, England, France and Spain still in contention for the title.
