Lester Cohen/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
The 2026 World Cup finale is shaping up to be a monumental display of star power, extending well beyond the action on the pitch. FIFA officially unveiled the lineup for the closing ceremony on Tuesday (July 14), showcasing an array of internationally acclaimed talent.
Jennifer Hudson, distinguished as one of the elite few to achieve EGOT status, will take center stage for a “special rendition” of the U.S. national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” just before the final match kicks off on Sunday (July 19) at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The pre-match festivities aim to honor the collective journey of the 48 competing nations. The program will feature performances from pop powerhouse Nicole Scherzinger, Italian icon Laura Pausini, and superstar Robbie Williams, alongside a surprise appearance by renowned actor Tom Cruise and popular streamer IShowSpeed.
“I am deeply grateful to be part of such a momentous celebration,” Scherzinger shared via Instagram Stories shortly after the announcement. “It is a true privilege—can’t wait to see everyone at the #FIFAWorldCup.”
Laura Pausini, who previously teamed up with Williams for the 2025 FIFA anthem “Desire,” expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event. “I am incredibly proud that an Italian voice will contribute to this global celebration alongside Robbie and Nicole,” she noted on social media. “Sharing this unique experience with football fans across the globe is something I am eagerly looking forward to.”
Heimo Schirgi, COO of the FIFA World Cup 2026, emphasized the significance of the event in a recent statement: “Following the spirit of our opening ceremonies that welcomed the world to North America, the closing show will bring the 2026 tournament full circle. It is a fusion of music, culture, and sport, setting the stage for the crowning of our new champions.”
Beyond the closing ceremonies, the halftime show is set to be equally historic, featuring a high-profile lineup of co-headliners, including BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and Shakira, with the production curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
As the tournament reaches its climax, the field has narrowed to four contenders: Argentina, England, France, and Spain. The semifinal showdowns are scheduled for July 14 and 15, leading up to the third-place match on July 18 and the championship final on July 19.
