Strong Reactions After Final Delayed by Closing Ceremony: 'We Seem to Have Lost Control'

The start of the 2026 World Cup final faced a six-minute delay, attributed to the event's elaborate closing ceremony. This scheduling decision sparked strong reactions from former players and media personalities, who voiced concerns about the impact on the game's flow and intensity.

"It's pure idiocy. Sitting for 30-40 minutes, you stiffen up. For people who want to see an intense football match, it will ruin the game," said Bjørn Helge Riise in a VG studio. He was referring to the lengthy ceremony that preceded the final match at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

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It's pure idiocy. Sitting for 30-40 minutes, you stiffen up. For people who want to see an intense football match, it will ruin the game.

Former players like Solveig Gulbrandsen expressed frustration, suggesting that commercial interests and entertainment acts were overshadowing the sport itself. "It's not football that decides anymore. It seems we've lost control. It seems like someone is in charge. Someone decides who gets a red card. It's completely hopeless," Gulbrandsen stated.

Roy Keane, a Manchester United legend, commented on the players' demeanor, noting they appeared relaxed and in the zone. However, he acknowledged the potential for distraction. The ceremony featured performances by actor Tom Cruise, YouTuber iShowSpeed, and artist Post Malone.

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It's not football that decides anymore. It seems we've lost control. It seems like someone is in charge. Someone decides who gets a red card. It's completely hopeless.