The FIFA World Cup is gearing up for an exhilarating closing ceremony that will feature a star-studded lineup, including actor Tom Cruise and popular streamer IShowSpeed, as revealed on Tuesday.
This grand event is set to take place 90 minutes before the final match on Sunday, commemorating the impressive journey of the 48 teams across 16 host cities in three countries, according to FIFA’s announcement.
IShowSpeed, renowned for live-streaming numerous matches, is among the highlighted performers. Tom Cruise, who captured attention with his recent stunt during the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics, will also make a notable appearance. The performance roster will include Italian singer Laura Pausini, who opened the Milan Cortina Olympics earlier this year, Nicole Scherzinger, a Tony Award winner and member of the Pussycat Dolls, and celebrated British artist Robbie Williams.
Adding to the excitement, Jennifer Hudson, an accomplished EGOT winner, will perform the U.S. national anthem.
“celebrate the 48 teams’ unforgettable journey” said Heimo Schirgi, the World Cup’s chief operating officer.
Sunday will also mark the debut of the tournament’s halftime show, featuring an array of additional high-profile artists. The closing ceremony is being produced in collaboration with Balich Wonder Studio, directed by Marco Balich, who previously managed the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
FIFA has encouraged ticket holders to arrive early, assuring that fans will play a significant role in the performance. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 1:30 PM ET at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, leading up to the kickoff at 3:00 PM ET.
