Fifa have officially announced a star-studded cast for the closing ceremony of this instalment of the 2026 World Cup.

The closing ceremony, to be held before the final kicks off in New Jersey on 19 July, will celebrate a groundbreaking tournament that has seen a record number of 48 teams participate across three host countries.

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The show will start at 13:30 ET (18:30 BST) and will feature an impressive lineup of musicians including Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, and Robbie Williams. Additionally, the renowned Jennifer Hudson will sing the American national anthem just before the match kicks off at 15:00 ET (20:00 BST).

Internet celebrity IShowSpeed, known for his enthusiasm for Cristiano Ronaldo, will have an undisclosed role in the ceremony. His song, ‘Champions’, will be part of the official FIFA World Cup Album. Christopher Macchio, recognized as “America’s Tenor,” will also perform ‘America the Beautiful’.

The biggest star on the list is Hollywood A-lister Tom Cruise, who will also be involved in some capacity.

The chief operating officer of the World Cup, Heimo Schrigi, commented on the closing ceremony, stating: “Echoing the spirit of the opening ceremonies, which welcomed the world to the greatest stage in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, 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 ground-breaking tournament.”

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Four teams remain in this 23rd iteration of World Cup action. England will face defending champions Argentina on Wednesday, following the match-up between 2018 champions France and reigning European champions Spain on Tuesday evening, with a shot at becoming world champions on the line.

Fans are encouraged to arrive at the stadium well before kick-off, with FIFA recommending a four-hour arrival time, to ensure they can participate in the ceremony.

Further musical artists and special guests are expected to be announced in the coming days as the final approaches.