The 2026 FIFA World Cup final commenced with an electrifying closing ceremony that included a performance by the internet superstar, IShowSpeed.
The pre-game festivities kicked off with the internet sensation lying in the middle of the playing field to perform his hit song called Champions, a track off the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album.
There was a group of drummers and dancers wearing brightly colored tracksuits. The first phase of their performance included some musicians entertaining the audience using percussion instruments.
In his entourage of lively dancers, IShowSpeed had on an all-white attire, making him stand out.
The streamer’s performance lasted for three minutes. This move made history, making him the first-ever content creator to officially perform at a FIFA World Cup ceremony.
FIFA investigates alleged racism involving IShowSpeed
IShowSpeed’s historic performance comes after FIFA launched an investigation following his alleged racist encounter.
This event allegedly occurred during the match between Argentina and Cape Verde on July 3 and was streamed live on his channel.
An excerpt shows that the content creator asks what the person in the audience was telling him. The audience member, who had an Argentina shirt on, apparently said to the streamer:
“Go cry to the zoo.”
Following this encounter, FIFA issued a statement, announcing they are investigating the matter.
“FIFA was made aware of an incident involving a supporter and #IShowSpeed at Miami Stadium during the Argentina vs Cabo Verde match on 3 July 2026 and immediately initiated an investigation.”
The organization also condemned such acts of racism, adding:
“The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of unity, diversity and respect. It brings together people, cultures and communities from around the world, and anyone who acts in a manner that undermines these values is not welcome in our game.”
Meanwhile, Post Malone followed with his performance of his hit single Wow, which laid the ground for the final match between Spain and Argentina.
Additionally, he performed the hit soundtrack to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse with Swae Lee, titled Sunflower.
More than 80,000 fans, along with celebrities and international dignitaries, were expected to fill New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament finale.
The entertainment lineup also included scheduled appearances from Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, and Nicole Scherzinger.
As part of making the event even more memorable, audiences look forward to the highly anticipated shows by Madonna, who has just dropped her latest album Confessions II; Shakira, Justin Bieber, and BTS.
Meanwhile, ahead of her performance, Italian singer Pausini revealed to the BBC that she can’t wait to share the stage with Robbie Williams.
“When Robbie [Williams] invited me to sing with him, I felt goosebumps everywhere because Robbie’s one of my favorite singer, songwriter, and performer.”
The performances marked the start of one of the biggest sporting events of the year, with Spain and Argentina competing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title before a global television audience.
Edited by Gladys Altamarino