FIFA is relying on Hollywood prominence for the closing ceremony of its World Cup: Tom Cruise (64) will make an appearance at the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19. The world federation officially confirmed the engagement of the actor on Tuesday. FIFA is announcing the contribution of the "Mission: Impossible" star as a "Special Appearance", meaning a classic musical number is not planned.
What exactly Cruise is planning on the stage in East Rutherford outside the gates of New York is not yet being revealed by the federation. FIFA is also keeping quiet about the obvious question of whether the action star will pull out one of his stunts again.
From Stadium Roof to World Cup
Just in the summer of 2024, the actor created a much-discussed moment at the Olympic Games in Paris. Cruise rappelled down from the roof of the Stade de France, received the Olympic flag from gymnastics icon Simone Biles (29), and left the stadium on a motorcycle. A pre-recorded film sequence then showed him bringing the flag to Los Angeles, the host of the 2028 Summer Games.
The fact that the 64-year-old performs his film scenes without stunt doubles whenever possible has long been part of his trademark. That's precisely why expectations for his World Cup appearance are likely to be high.
Pop Stars and a Special Anthem
Cruise is not the only prominent name on the guest list. For the musical program, FIFA has signed Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and internet star IShowSpeed. Jennifer Hudson is taking on a special role: The singer and actress will perform her own version of the US national anthem before kickoff. The federation plans to announce additional artists and guests in the coming days.
The venue for the ceremony is the New York New Jersey Stadium, which operates as MetLife Stadium outside the tournament. It begins at 1:30 PM local time, 90 minutes before kickoff. In Germany, the show starts at 7:30 PM, with the final following at 9:00 PM. The spectators in the stands are not just supposed to watch, but actively become part of the program.
