Popular Americanstreamer and content creatorIShowSpeedmade history after taking to the stage during the opening segment of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, becoming the first internet content creator to perform as part of the tournament’s official pre-match entertainment.
The 21-year-old, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., opened the closing ceremony at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, 19 July, ahead of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. His appearance formed part of FIFA’s expanded entertainment programme, which also featured international music stars and Hollywood celebrities.
Opening the show
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Dressed in an all-white outfit,IShowSpeed emerged onto the stage surrounded by dancers, drummers and colourful choreography as thousands of fans inside the stadium welcomed the performance.
He performed his song ‘World Cup (Champions)’, which was released ahead of the tournament and featured on the official FIFA World Cup 2026 music collection. The energetic performance included pyrotechnics, marching band elements and synchronised dance routines before the football action got underway.
“IShowSpeed helped launch the festivities ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.”
His performance marked a significant moment in FIFA’s efforts to blend football with modern digital culture by including one of the world’s most recognisable online personalities in its official entertainment programme.
From livestreams to football’s biggest stage
IShowSpeed rose to international fame through his gaming livestreams and high-energy online content before becoming closely associated with football over the past few years.
His admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, appearances at major football events and collaborations with players and clubs have helped him build a strong following among football fans. FIFA also appointed him as an Official Fan Creator, giving him the role of engaging younger audiences through exclusive tournament content, fan interactions and behind-the-scenes coverage across the World Cup.
“The performance highlighted the growing influence of digital creators in global sport.”
Music stars follow the opening performance.
After IShowSpeed’s energetic set, the pre-match ceremony continued with performances from several internationally renowned artists.
Post Malone headlines the ceremony.
American rapper and singer Post Malone took to the stage as one of the headline performers, entertaining fans before kick-off with a selection of his biggest hits.
Robbie Williams and Laura Pausini reunite.
British pop star Robbie Williams joined Italian singer Laura Pausini to perform ‘Desire’, the official FIFA World Cup 2026 anthem. The pair had released the song ahead of the tournament as FIFA’s official soundtrack.
Nicole Scherzinger joins the celebration.
Singer and television personality Nicole Scherzinger also featured in the ceremony, adding to the star-studded entertainment programme before the teams entered the pitch.
Jennifer Hudson performs the national anthem.
Award-winning American singer Jennifer Hudson delivered a powerful rendition of the United States national anthem ahead of kick-off, one of the traditional highlights before the final.
Tom Cruise makes a special appearance.
Hollywood actor Tom Cruise made a surprise appearance during the ceremony, while fans inside the stadium welcomed several special guests as FIFA built up to the tournament’s showpiece match.
