Tom Cruise, Jennifer Hudson Reportedly Set for 2026 World Cup Final Performances

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is gearing up to be a spectacular event, with Hollywood actor Tom Cruise and Grammy-winning singer Jennifer Hudson reportedly slated to perform. Hudson is expected to sing the United States national anthem, while Cruise will make a special appearance.

The final, scheduled for July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium, will be preceded by a closing ceremony featuring performances by Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and YouTube personality IShowSpeed. FIFA's Chief Operating Officer, Heimo Schirgi, emphasized that the ceremony will celebrate music, culture, and football, bringing the tournament full circle.

In a historic move, FIFA and Global Citizen will co-host the first-ever halftime show at a World Cup Final. This 11-minute performance aims to blend football, music, and social action, with reported acts including Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and Coldplay with the PS22 Chorus. The initiative supports the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which seeks to raise $100 million to improve educational and football access for children globally. A $1 donation will be made for every World Cup ticket sold.

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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.