2 mins: Spain have pressed right off the bat but it’s Argentina who win the first free-kick, with that overzealous leading to a late challenge.
Will Castle19 July 2026 20:08
The World Cup final… IS UNDERWAY!
Six minutes late, admittedly. But we’re off.
Will Castle19 July 2026 20:07
“It’s… TIMEEEEEEEE!” vs “Let’s get ready to RUMBLEEEEEEE!”
The icon announcers of the fighting world set the tone.
Will Castle19 July 2026 20:06
Well by default, Argentina win the battle of the anthems – because Spain’s doesn’t have lyrics.
But wow, that was some rendition by the Argentines. Absolutely belted out. Spine-tingling stuff.
That’s set the mood, more than Tom Cruise could possibly manage.
(Getty)
Will Castle19 July 2026 20:04
Spain and Argentina are out under the New Jersey sun.
National anthems up next…
(Reuters)
Will Castle19 July 2026 19:59
World Cup 2026 closing ceremony
And that’s your lot for the closing ceremony.
The players are lining up in the tunnel… the World Cup 2026 final is NEXT!
Will Castle19 July 2026 19:56
World Cup 2026 closing ceremony
Tom Cruise is here! He’s standing on a box… “he’s not going to sing, is he?”
Alas, no. He’s amping us all up with a fitting pre-final speech.
He even drops some impressive Spanish. “There are two teams left: Espana y Argentina!”
(Getty)
Will Castle19 July 2026 19:56
World Cup 2026 closing ceremony
Spain’s 2010 winner Andres Iniesta is out to present the World Cup trophy from a Louis Vuitton box.
And opening said box, is that… Carlos Alcaraz? Watch the wrist, Carlitos!
Heads up, this might end up delaying kick-off by a few minutes.
(Getty)
Will Castle19 July 2026 19:53
World Cup 2026 closing ceremony
Now it’s time for Stoke’s very own Robbie Williams and Nicole Scherzinger, who perform their Fifa anthem of “Desire”. Laura Pausini is also here.
If not heard before, it’s the sort of corny anthem that could have very easily had its lyrics AI-generated.
“Aim high, fly by, it’s a beautiful day and the dream is coming true!” Anyone else feeling inspired?
(Getty)
Will Castle19 July 2026 19:51
World Cup 2026 closing ceremony
Jennifer Hudson belts out the US national anthem to get us back underway, making us feel all stars-and-stripy. Better pipes than Speed, we’ll give her that.
(Reuters)
Will Castle19 July 2026 19:48