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Star-Studded Pre-Match Ceremony Underway at New York Stadium
The highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 closing ceremony is in full swing at New York New Jersey Stadium, featuring a spectacular lineup of international performers ahead of the final between Spain and Argentina.
Pre-Match Performances
American rapper Post Malone and internet sensation IShowSpeed were among the first to take the stage at the 82,500-capacity venue in East Rutherford, New Jersey. IShowSpeed performed his football anthem World Cup (Champions), while Post Malone followed with Chrome Heartbreaker as the festivities began.
British singer Robbie Williams, Italian artist Laura Pausini, and former Pussycat Dolls vocalist Nicole Scherzinger are also part of the pre-match entertainment lineup. Hollywood actor Tom Cruise is expected to make a special appearance, while Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem moments before kickoff.
Historic First Halftime Show
In a World Cup first, the final will feature a dedicated half-time show curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin. A star-studded lineup including Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber, Nigerian singer Burna Boy, Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and New York’s PS22 Chorus will perform during the interval.
The performance is expected to last approximately 11 minutes, though the complete break may be extended to allow for stage assembly and removal directly on the pitch within minutes of the first half concluding.
Global Initiative and VIP Attendance
The half-time show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a $100 million initiative expanding access to education and football opportunities for children worldwide. Characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets are also expected to appear as part of the education-focused production.
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, along with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, are in attendance for the final. The ceremony marks the conclusion of the first 48-team World Cup, staged across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico over 39 days.
