Tom Cruise and a host of Hollywood stars turned the 2026 FIFA World Cup final into a global entertainment showcase, adding extra glamour to football’s biggest stage.

The final between Spain and defending champions Argentina at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, temporarily renamed the New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament, attracted worldwide attention. Millions of fans tuned in to watch football icons Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, who may have played in their final World Cup. Younger stars Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal also helped drive interest in the tournament.

Cruise Takes Centre Stage

Cruise, who is promoting his upcoming film Digger, ranked among the event’s biggest attractions. Before kickoff, he spent time with Sesame Street characters Elmo and Cookie Monster.

Later, the actor delivered an inspirational message to supporters inside the stadium and viewers around the world.

“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.”

His appearance followed months of promotion linking the World Cup with Digger. Throughout the tournament, special television spots for the film aired during match broadcasts.

Celebrities Fill the Stands

A remarkable list of celebrities from entertainment, politics and sports attended the final. Among those present were President Donald Trump, Matt Damon and his wife Luciana, Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner, Mick Jagger, Justin Bieber, Will Ferrell, Tom Brady, Kevin Hart, Victor Wembanyama, Post Malone, Pharrell Williams, Julia Garner, Trevor Noah, Anya Taylor-Joy and Adrien Brody.

Their presence helped make the match one of the most star-packed sporting events in recent memory.

Historic Halftime Show

Another major attraction was the World Cup’s first official halftime show. Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, the performance featured BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna and Shakira.

Fans also enjoyed a surprise appearance from Jason Sudeikis as his popular character Ted Lasso. While introducing Bieber, he urged the singer to “make us proud” as he stood in front of a “BELIEBE” sign.