Tom Cruise delivers opening speech at FIFA World Cup final

• Tom Cruise opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with an inspirational speech.
• The tournament concluded as Spain defeated defending champions Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium.
• Chris Martin curated the first official halftime show featuring BTS, Madonna, and Shakira.

Actor Tom Cruise opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday with an inspirational speech at New York New Jersey Stadium before Spain defeated defending champions Argentina to lift the trophy. Speaking ahead of the match, Cruise highlighted how the month-long tournament had united diverse cultures, nations, and supporters across the globe. He described football as a universal language that bridges differences, turns strangers into friends, and reminds people of their shared humanity.

Social media updates shared by the official FIFA World Cup account showed the Hollywood star mingling with Sesame Street characters Elmo and Cookie Monster prior to the match. A broad collection of high-profile global figures attended the landmark fixture, including US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Matt Damon, Timothée Chalamet, Kylie Jenner, David Beckham, Victoria Beckham, Serena Williams, and Mick Jagger. Other prominent attendees included Dua Lipa, Will Ferrell, Tom Brady, Kevin Hart, Martha Stewart, Pharrell Williams, Julia Garner, Trevor Noah, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Adrien Brody.

The final featured FIFA's first official halftime show, which was curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and included performances from BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and Shakira. Actor Jason Sudeikis appeared in character as Ted Lasso to introduce Bieber to the crowd. For the closing ceremony, musician Post Malone performed songs including Chrome Heartbreaker, Wow, and Sunflower alongside guest artist Swae Lee. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also shared moments from the star-studded event on social media as the tournament concluded.