2026 World Cup Closing Ceremony: FIFA confirm final lineup for controversial tournament finale

FIFA have confirmed the full entertainment lineup for the 2026 World Cup closing ceremony ahead of Sunday's final at New York New Jersey Stadium.

But while the show promises plenty of star power, several aspects of the spectacle have already divided opinion among football supporters.

Who is performing at the 2026 World Cup final closing ceremony?

FIFA has unveiled the latest lineup for the 2026 World Cup closing ceremony, which will begin 90 minutes before kick-off at MetLife Stadium on Sunday July 19th.

The ceremony will celebrate the tournament's journey across the United States, Canada and Mexico before the world champions are crowned.

Among the headline performers are Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger and internet personality IShowSpeed, while Hollywood actor Tom Cruise will also make a special appearance during the show.

Award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson has been selected to perform the United States national anthem before kick-off, with FIFA describing her rendition as setting the stage for “football's biggest match”.

FIFA says the ceremony will celebrate the passion, culture and emotion of the expanded 48-team tournament, with fans encouraged to arrive early as festivities begin at 1:30pm local time – around 90 minutes before the final itself.

The governing body has also confirmed that additional artists and special guests could still be announced before Sunday's grand pre-game show.

FGG says: Why has this caused fresh controversy?

There's no doubt the World Cup final deserves a memorable closing ceremony, but many supporters feel football itself should always remain centre stage.

The decision to feature the United States national anthem before a final that may not even involve the host nation has already raised eyebrows, while reports suggesting the half-time show could last around 30 minutes risk disrupting the biggest match in world football.

The inclusion of celebrities such as IShowSpeed has also divided opinion, with some questioning their relevance to the occasion.

The World Cup final is already one of the greatest sporting events on the planet, and many fans will argue it doesn't need to borrow so heavily from the Super Bowl playbook to feel special.