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From Tom Cruise to BTS: FIFA World Cup 2026 finals set to deliver the biggest entertainment spectacle in football history
By Rohini Chakraborty
Published : 14 Jul 2026, 11:38AM
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Final is set to be far more than just the biggest football match on the planet. Scheduled for Sunday, July 19, at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), the showpiece event will combine elite football with a dazzling entertainment extravaganza, featuring an A-list line-up before kick-off and the tournament’s first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show
The festivities begin with the pre-match Closing Ceremony, which starts at 1.30 pm EDT, ahead of the 3 pm kick-off. Produced in collaboration with Balich Wonder Studio, the ceremony promises a spectacular blend of music, celebrity appearances and theatrical production to celebrate the culmination of the month-long tournament
Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise will make one of the most anticipated appearances of the evening, adding plenty of star power to the occasion. Jennifer Hudson will perform a stirring rendition of the United States national anthem before the match gets underway. Joining the celebrations will be global pop sensation Robbie Williams, acclaimed singer Nicole Scherzinger and celebrated Italian vocalist Laura Pausini, each delivering live performances. Internet phenomenon IShowSpeed, whose love for football has earned him a massive global following, will also make a special performance appearance.
As if that were not enough, the final will also make history with FIFA introducing its first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show. Lasting 11 minutes, the broadcast spectacle has been curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund
The halftime stage will be headlined by Justin Bieber, Madonna and BTS, creating one of the most ambitious musical collaborations ever seen at a sporting event. World Cup favourite Shakira returns to perform the tournament’s official anthem, Dai Dai, while Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy joins her for a special segment. Coldplay will perform alongside New York’s acclaimed PS22 Chorus, with world-renowned conductor Gustavo Dudamel leading a specially arranged orchestral performance. Adding a family-friendly touch to the celebrations, beloved Sesame Street and The Muppets characters will also make special appearances.
With football’s greatest prize on the line and an entertainment line-up featuring some of the biggest names in music, film and popular culture, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final promises an unforgettable celebration that extends well beyond the beautiful game
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