Keeping football fans in suspense, Spain finally beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday (July 19).
Striker Ferran Torres, later named Man of the Match, opened the scoring in the 106th minute of the match with the only goal of the match, played at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), crowning Spain world champions for the second time in history.
While the action on the pitch kept football fans glued to their screens around the world, the biggest night of the tournament also served as a showcase for Hollywood stars, global music icons and pop culture moments.
Beyond the pitch: All the iconic celebrity moments from the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Tom Cruise’s opening speech:
THE Mission Impossible The star opened the FIFA World Cup final with an inspiring speech celebrating the power of football to unite people around the world.
“As we come together for a final chapter, let us celebrate a tournament that brought the world together,” he said, creating a powerful moment. “Let’s celebrate each other. That’s football. That’s unity. That’s greatness.”
Timothée Chalamet carrying the official ball of the match:
Before the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina kicks off, the Oscar nominee, who attended the event with girlfriend Kylie Jenner, carries the official match ball before the match.
Rihanna and ASAP Rocky:
ASAP Rocky and Rihanna were spotted sitting in the stands.
THE Diamonds The hitmaker was pictured dancing the Macarena at the FIFA World Cup final with her sunglasses on and a glass of drink in hand while her long-term partner took a sip from his drink.
Madonna:
Madonna opened the show by performing her 2000 hit Music in the stadium tunnels and around the pitch, accompanied by Brazilian football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.
The Muppets and Gustavo Dudamel:
Animal from the Muppets performed a drum break alongside conductor Gustavo Dudamel, leading orchestral musicians through Seven Nations Army.
BTS achieved Dynamite
The seven-member K-pop sensation then took the midfield stage to perform their fan-favorite track. Dynamite.
Justin Bieber:
Presented by Jason Sudeikis, in the role of Ted LassoBieber slowed down the tempo to perform an acoustic guitar version of his song All Hallelujah.
Hailey Bieber:
Hailey Bieber was spotted in the crowd as her husband performed at the first halftime show of the FIFA World Cup.
BTS X Justin Bieber:
BTS’ Taehyung V was the first to congratulate Justin after his performance.
BTS V and the Baby hitmaker also kissed.
Shakira and Burna Boy:
The duo got together to play Dai Dai, their collaboration for the official song of the 2026 World Cup.
Coldplay and PS22 choir:
Hosted by frontman Chris Martin, Coldplay closed out the historic 27-minute interval alongside Staten Island children’s choir PS22 and Muppet characters to sing their new track. We dance.
Jay-Z and Beyoncé:
The power couple was also spotted among other stars
David Beckham poses with BTS:
A video captured by a fan captured Victoria Beckham’s husband posing with RM, Jimin, Jin, Jungkook, J Hope, Suga and V.
Matt Damon:
Even Matt Damon took some time off during his busy press campaign for Christopher Nolan. The Odyssey to watch the World Cup final
IShowSpeed meets BTS:
IShowSpeed had an energetic fan moment with BTS.
Dua Lipa:
A few weeks after returning from her honeymoon, Dua Lipa attended the FIFA World Cup final alongside her husband Callum Turner.
Tom Cruise poses with BTS:
Ariana Grande:
Ariana Grande and her friends were on screen during the match.
Blake Lively:
Blake Lively attended the finale with her friends.
From the star-studded halftime show to surprise celebrity interactions and viral fan encounters, the World Cup final created many memorable moments off the field and behind the scenes.
