Jennifer Hudson to Perform National Anthem at 2026 FIFA World Cup Final

Jennifer Hudson has been selected to perform the United States national anthem at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final closing ceremony, marking a major role in the tournament's culminating event. The final will take place on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Hudson's performance preceding what organizers describe as a "groundbreaking tournament."

Closing Ceremony and Halftime Entertainment

The closing ceremony, scheduled for 90 minutes before the championship match, will celebrate the 48 teams' journeys across 16 host cities spanning Canada, Mexico and the United States. FIFA has assembled a substantial entertainment lineup that extends beyond Hudson's national anthem performance. Actor Tom Cruise will make a special appearance, following his participation in the Paris Olympics closing ceremony where he performed a stunt involving rappelling from the stadium roof.

The halftime show during the actual final match represents an unprecedented scale of star power. Performers include Justin Bieber, the group BTS, Shakira and Madonna, creating one of the most ambitious entertainment programs for a World Cup. Additional performers at the closing ceremony include Italian singer Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger and Robbie Williams. YouTube streamer IShowSpeed, who has documented World Cup matches throughout the tournament, is also listed as a performer.

Stadium Experience and Fan Engagement

FIFA officials have emphasized fan participation as a central element of the ceremony design. Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer of FIFA World Cup 2026, stated that the closing ceremony will "bring the FIFA World Cup 2026 full circle through music, culture and football" while echoing the spirit of the opening ceremonies. The organization is actively encouraging spectators to arrive at MetLife Stadium early to participate in interactive elements of the show.