FIFA has confirmed an impressive entertainment programme for the closing ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a host of global music stars and celebrities set to perform ahead of the tournament’s final on Sunday, 19 July, at New York New Jersey Stadium.
The ceremony will mark the conclusion of what FIFA describes as the biggest World Cup ever, celebrating the journey of all 48 participating nations across the three host countries and 16 host cities that staged matches during the tournament.
International music stars Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger and Robbie Williams are scheduled to perform, while popular internet personality IShowSpeed will also feature in the pre-match show.
Hollywood actor Tom Cruise is expected to make a special appearance as part of the entertainment spectacle.
Award-winning singer and actress Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem before kick-off.
The Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony Award winner is expected to deliver one of the ceremony’s standout moments as the world prepares for the championship match.
The production is being created in partnership with Balich Wonder Studio and is designed to showcase the passion, culture and unity that have characterised the month-long competition.
FIFA said the ceremony will also reflect the tournament’s historic expansion to 48 teams, a format introduced for the first time at the 2026 edition.
Organisers added that additional performers and special guests will be announced before the final.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi said the closing ceremony would mirror the spirit of the tournament’s opening celebrations while bringing the competition to a memorable conclusion.
“Echoing the spirit of the opening ceremonies, which welcomed the world to the greatest stage in Canada, Mexico and the United States, the closing ceremony will bring the FIFA World Cup 2026 full circle through music, culture and football, before we kick off the highly anticipated match that will crown the champions of this groundbreaking tournament.”
Fans attending the final have been encouraged to arrive well ahead of kick-off to enjoy the full experience.
The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. local time, 90 minutes before the final gets underway, while stadium gates will open four hours earlier at 11:00 a.m.
Supporters will also have the opportunity to participate in the event through a range of interactive activities, fan experiences, exclusive activations and other pre-match entertainment planned throughout the day.
