The FIFA World Cup 2026 will conclude with a star-studded closing ceremony ahead of the final between defending champions Argentina and European champions Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19 (July 20 in India).
FIFA has lined up an entertainment spectacle featuring international music stars, celebrities and a first-of-its-kind World Cup half-time show as the tournament comes to a close.
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Who will perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026 closing ceremony?
The pre-match closing ceremony will feature Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and internet personality IShowSpeed. Hollywood actor Tom Cruise will also make a special appearance.
Ahead of kick-off, EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson will perform the United States national anthem.
In a statement, FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi said the ceremony would bring together “music, culture and football” before the championship match.
“Echoing the spirit of the opening ceremonies… 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,” Schirgi said.
What is special about the World Cup final half-time show?
For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, the final will feature a Super Bowl-style half-time show.
The performance, expected to last around 25 minutes, has been organised in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to raise USD 100 million to improve access to education and football opportunities for children worldwide.
The half-time show will be headlined by Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and BTS, with Coldplay frontman Chris Martin curating the performance.
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When will the closing ceremony begin?
The closing ceremony will begin at 11:00 pm IST on July 19, approximately 90 minutes before kick-off.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain is scheduled to begin at 12:30 am IST on July 20.
FAQs
Q1. What time does the FIFA World Cup 2026 closing ceremony start in India?
The closing ceremony begins at 11:00 pm IST on July 19, around 90 minutes before the final.
Q2. Who will perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026 closing ceremony?
Laura Pausini, Robbie Williams, Nicole Scherzinger, IShowSpeed and Jennifer Hudson are scheduled to perform, while Tom Cruise will make a special appearance. Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and BTS will headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup final half-time show.
