Hollywood’s biggest stars turned out for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with Tom Cruise opening the event before the match between Spain and Argentina.
The actor opened the ceremony with an inspiring speech at New York New Jersey Stadium, noting how the tournament had brought people together from around the world.
“Thirty days ago, nations began a journey. They crossed oceans. They crossed borders. They crossed cultures. And together, they showed us why this game belongs to the world.”
“From every corner of the globe, we have witnessed greatness, and we have shared in moments of joy, moments of hope, moments we will all never forget.”
He said football is a “language spoken without words” and a force that “unites people”, “turns strangers into friends” and reminds people what they have in common.
He went on, “These stories now belong to each and every one of us, to every nation, to every player, to every supporter, to every volunteer, to every dream carried on the pitch.
“So, as we gather for one final chapter, let us celebrate a tournament that brought the world together. Let us celebrate each other. This is football. This is unity. This is greatness,” Cruise said.
Before the match, Cruise was also seen spending time with Sesame Street characters Elmo and Cookie Monster.
Many popular figures attended the final, including US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Matt Damon, Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner, David and Victoria Beckham, Serena Williams, Mick Jagger, Dua Lipa, Will Ferrell, Tom Brady, Kevin Hart, Martha Stewart, Pharrell Williams, Julia Garner, Trevor Noah, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Adrien Brody.
The final also featured FIFA’s first-ever official halftime show. Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the performance included BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna and Shakira.
Actor Jason Sudeikis also appeared in character as Ted Lasso to introduce Bieber, telling him to “make us proud.”
For the closing ceremony, Post Malone performed to Chrome Heartbreaker, Wow, and Sunflower with Swae Lee.
The star-studded evening ended with Spain defeating defending champions Argentina to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.
