Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams, Nicole Scherzinger, and a Host of Stars to Feature in World Cup 2026 Closing Ceremony

The New York/New Jersey Stadium is set to host a spectacular closing ceremony for the largest FIFA World Cup to date. The event will take place on Sunday, July 19th, kicking off at 1:30 PM local time (8:30 PM Bulgarian time). FIFA has officially announced the celebrities slated to participate in the show.

Among the global superstars confirmed are Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, iShowSpeed, and others. Multi-award winner Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem before the FIFA World Cup 2026™ final, which begins at 10:00 PM Bulgarian time.

As the most expansive sporting event in history draws to a close, the World Cup closing ceremony will celebrate the unforgettable journey of 48 teams across three host nations and 16 host cities throughout the tournament.

The star-studded show will feature performances by Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and iShowSpeed, alongside a special appearance by Tom Cruise. This lineup brings together some of the biggest names in music and entertainment for an unforgettable celebration before the opening whistle.

Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award winner Jennifer Hudson will deliver a special rendition of the United States national anthem before the World Cup 2026™ final. As one of the world's most renowned performers, Hudson's powerful delivery will set the stage for the biggest football match and the tournament's most anticipated moment.

Produced in creative partnership with Balich Wonder Studio, the closing ceremony will celebrate the passion, emotion, and global spirit that defined the 23rd FIFA World Cup: a groundbreaking 48-team event that broke records and inspired a new generation of boys and girls worldwide to dream. Additional artists and special guests will be announced in the coming days.

"Much like the spirit of the opening ceremonies that welcomed the world to the biggest stage in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the closing ceremony will bring the FIFA World Cup 2026 cycle to a close through music, culture, and football, before we kick off the highly anticipated match that will crown the champions of this innovative tournament," stated Heimo Schirgi, FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer.

Fans in the stadium will play an active role in the show and should plan to arrive early, as the closing ceremony begins at 1:30 PM local time, 90 minutes before kickoff. Gates open four hours before the match, initiating a range of experiences including exclusive activations, giveaways, and additional pre-match entertainment.