The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will begin with a star-studded closing ceremony at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, featuring Jennifer Hudson, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, IShowSpeed and Tom Cruise. The pre-match show will celebrate the tournament's conclusion and is separate from the halftime show, which FIFA will stage during the final with a different lineup.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will be preceded by a star-studded closing ceremony at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, July 19. Award-winning singer and actress Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem ahead of football's biggest match. The ceremony will begin at 1:30 pm local time, 90 minutes before kick-off.

Global music stars Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger and Robbie Williams will perform during the ceremony. Internet personality IShowSpeed will also be part of the entertainment lineup, while Hollywood actor Tom Cruise is set to make a special appearance. FIFA said more artists and special guests will be announced in the coming days.

The ceremony will celebrate the conclusion of the largest FIFA World Cup in history. The expanded tournament featured 48 teams competing across three host nations and 16 Host Cities. FIFA said the show has been produced in partnership with Balich Wonder Studio to celebrate the passion, emotion and global spirit of the competition.

Fans attending the final have been encouraged to arrive at the stadium well before kick-off. Gates will open at 11 am local time, with fan activations, entertainment and exclusive experiences scheduled before the ceremony. The closing ceremony will officially bring the curtain down on the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.