Tom Cruise is set to make a mysterious special appearance during the FIFA World Cup final closing ceremony, though organizers have not revealed what he will do. The actor’s involvement has fueled speculation following his headline-making stunt at the 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony.
He’ll be joined at the closing ceremony by internet superstar IShowSpeed, while Justin Bieber is among the headliners for the tournament’s first-ever halftime show, alongside Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy, and several other global music stars.
Tom Cruise is headed to the FIFA World Cup final, with the Hollywood star confirmed for a “special appearance” during Sunday’s closing ceremony at MetLife Stadium.
FIFA has not revealed what Cruise will do, but his inclusion has already sparked speculation following his memorable stunt at the Paris Olympics closing ceremony, where he abseiled from the roof of the Stade de France before riding off on a motorcycle with the Olympic flag.
Cruise won’t be alone, as Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, and internet sensation IShowSpeed are also set to take part in the pre-match festivities, per Deadline.
FIFA Adds Justin Bieber To Halftime Lineup
Fans also have Justin Bieber to look forward to as another co-headliner for the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show.
The lineup already featured global superstars BTS, Shakira, and Madonna as co-headliners before FIFA announced Bieber’s addition. Performances from other artists, including Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, the Muppets, and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay, will also be part of the Super Bowl-esque halftime showcase.
It is unclear whether Bieber’s addition was planned all along or made at the last minute, but the Canadian singer is expected to bring his unique style to the performance when the historic event takes place on July 19, 2026.
Bieber’s World Cup Set Benefits Charity
For Bieber, performing on the World Cup stage will be about more than just entertaining fans; it will also support a charitable cause.
A portion of the event’s proceeds, including $1 from every ticket sold for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will go toward charity. The initiative is focused on expanding access to education for children around the world, with more than $50 million already raised ahead of the tournament.
Bieber said he was honored to be part of the effort, expressing his gratitude in a statement released alongside the announcement of his addition to the halftime show lineup.
“The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can,” the pop star said. “I’m grateful to be part of this halftime show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world.”
Justin Bieber Already Took In US And Canada Matches
Bieber has also embraced the World Cup as a fan, making appearances at several matches throughout the tournament.
Fans at SoFi Stadium first spotted him alongside his wife, Hailey Bieber, as they cheered on the United States during its match against Paraguay. Before kickoff, the singer was seen dancing and soaking up the electric atmosphere created by the opening ceremony performances by Katy Perry, Future, Tyla, LISA, Anitta, and Rema.
Days later, Bieber was seen in the stands during one of Canada’s World Cup matches. He appeared to be enjoying the occasion, proudly waving the Canadian flag throughout the game. When he noticed the stadium cameras focused on him, he smiled and waved to the crowd.
Donald Trump Will Help Present The World Cup Trophy
Donald Trump is set to play a prominent role in the World Cup final, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirming the pair will jointly present the trophy to the tournament winners after the match on July 19.
Speaking during an appearance on Fox & Friends, Infantino said, “We will be together with the president, enjoying the final, and handing the trophy to the winner — of course, together.” When asked to clarify whether they would share the presentation duties, he replied, “Of course. We are together all the time.”
The appearance will mirror last year’s FIFA Club World Cup final, where Trump joined Infantino for Chelsea’s trophy presentation. Trump remained on stage during the team’s celebrations, prompting confusion among some Chelsea players, including captain Reece James and star Cole Palmer, who later admitted they hadn’t expected the president to stay for the trophy lift.
