The FIFA World Cup 2026 final, set to take place at the New York-New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026, promises an unprecedented blend of world-class football and spectacular entertainment. For the first time in the tournament's history, the final will feature a dedicated halftime show, alongside a star-studded pre-match closing ceremony and celebrity appearances. This grand event is organized in partnership with Global Citizen, with a significant portion of proceeds supporting children's education through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
National Anthem Performance
Kicking off the festivities, EGOT-winning American singer and actress Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem before the highly anticipated match. Hudson, who rose to prominence on American Idol and earned an Academy Award for her role in Dreamgirls, brings her powerful vocals to the global stage.
Historic Halftime Show Lineup
Making history, the FIFA World Cup final will host its inaugural halftime show, curated by Coldplay's lead vocalist Chris Martin and manager Phil Harvey. This momentous performance will feature an array of global music icons:
- Madonna: The "Queen of Pop," known for hits like "Like a Prayer" and "Vogue," will perform as part of a global initiative supporting children's education.
- Shakira: The Colombian superstar, famous for World Cup anthems such as "Waka Waka" and the official FIFA World Cup 2026 song "Dai Dai," will also use her platform to highlight the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.
- BTS: The Grammy-nominated South Korean K-pop sensation, celebrated for chart-toppers like "Dynamite" and "Butter," will bring their global appeal to the halftime stage, further supporting the education fund.
Pre-Match Closing Ceremony Stars
Before kick-off, a vibrant closing ceremony will celebrate the first 48-team FIFA World Cup and its 16 host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Headlining this ceremony will be Grammy-nominated American rapper and singer Post Malone. Other notable performers and special guests include:
- Laura Pausini: The Grammy and Latin Grammy-winning Italian vocalist.
- Nicole Scherzinger: American singer, actress, and former lead vocalist of The Pussycat Dolls.
- Robbie Williams: British pop superstar and FIFA Music Ambassador.
- IShowSpeed: A globally recognized YouTube streamer and passionate football personality.
- Tom Cruise: The iconic Hollywood actor and producer, star of the Mission: Impossible and Top Gun franchises, will make a special celebrity appearance.
This comprehensive entertainment package underscores FIFA's commitment to combining elite sports with world-class cultural performances, all while contributing to a significant philanthropic cause through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund.