FIFA World Cup hosts most expensive closing spectacle in history

The curtain is about to fall on the world's biggest sporting event—the FIFA World Cup 2026. Spain and Argentina are set to battle for football's ultimate prize in the final.

But before the historic showdown kicks off, FIFA is preparing to deliver an unprecedented entertainment spectacle for the tens of thousands inside the stadium and millions watching around the world.

The grand finale, to be held at MetLife Stadium in New York, is being billed as the most star-studded and expensive closing ceremony in World Cup history.

The ceremony will begin 90 minutes before kickoff, with American pop superstar Post Malone serving as the headline performer.

One of the biggest surprises of the evening will be the appearance of Hollywood megastar Tom Cruise. According to FIFA, Cruise's special performance will showcase a unique fusion of football and cinema.

The event will open with the United States national anthem performed by Academy Award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson. The entertainment lineup also features British pop icon Robbie Williams, Italian singer Laura Pausini, and social media sensation IShowSpeed.

The biggest innovation of the 2026 World Cup will be its first-ever halftime show. Inspired by the NFL's iconic Super Bowl halftime entertainment, FIFA has introduced an 11-minute musical performance during the interval between the two halves.

Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the halftime show will feature an all-star lineup of global music icons, including K-pop supergroup BTS, global pop star Justin Bieber, pop legend Madonna, and Latin music queen Shakira. Shakira and Afrobeats star Burna Boy are expected to electrify the 90,000 fans inside the stadium with their World Cup anthem, "Dai Dai."

Once the dazzling opening ceremony and halftime show conclude, the focus will shift to football's biggest battle. On one side stands Lionel Messi, aiming to lift another World Cup trophy in what could be the final chapter of his illustrious career. On the other is Spain's youthful squad led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, one of football's brightest emerging stars.

Blending world-class entertainment with the sport's biggest prize, the 2026 World Cup final promises to be a memorable night that will remain etched in the hearts of football fans for years to come.