The anticipation surrounding the 2026 World Cup Final has reached a fever pitch. On Wednesday, July 15, FIFA officially announced that global superstar Post Malone will headline the tournament’s closing ceremony, set to take place just before the championship match kicks off on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
FIFA representatives teased a “landmark performance” from the hitmaker, whose career is defined by six No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and three chart-topping albums on the Billboard 200. This set is intended to serve as the ultimate prelude to the final showdown.
“At a unique intersection of sports, culture, and global excitement, Post Malone will curate a performance that honors the tournament’s incredible journey,” said FIFA president Gianni Infantino. “We are thrilled to bring together stars from the worlds of music and athletics. The closing ceremony will set a historic stage for the final, uniting the fervor of 48 teams, 16 host cities, and millions of fans worldwide.”
The reveal of this 18-time Grammy nominee follows Tuesday’s announcement that Jennifer Hudson will perform the national anthem. The star-studded ceremony will also feature appearances by Nicole Scherzinger, Laura Pausini, Robbie Williams, superstar Tom Cruise, and internet personality IShowSpeed. Festivities are scheduled to commence at 1:30 p.m. ET, ninety minutes before the final whistle blows.
Fans can also look forward to a monumental Halftime Show, co-headlined by industry titans BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and Shakira. The 11-minute spectacle has been expertly curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
With Spain already securing their spot in the final after a victory over France, the world now turns its eyes toward the impending clash between England and Argentina, which will determine who challenges Spain for the trophy.
