Jennifer Hudson helped launch the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final with a stunning performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” giving fans one of the biggest pre match moments before Spain and Argentina took the field.
The Grammy winning singer and talk show host performed in front of a sold out crowd at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, as part of FIFA’s expanded pre game ceremony. This year’s final broke from the usual format by featuring the anthem of the host nation in addition to the national anthems of the two finalists.
FIFA had announced on July 14 that Hudson would deliver a “special rendition” of the U.S. anthem before the final, and the decision quickly sparked debate online because the United States was not one of the teams playing for the trophy.
@zayra.blue.family Happening now at #FIFA final #jenniferhudson
The reason was tied to the location of the match. The final was held on American soil, and Hudson’s performance was part of a separate ceremony that began at 1:30 p.m. ET, about 90 minutes before kickoff. FIFA said the event was designed to celebrate the tournament’s journey across its three host countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
After Hudson’s performance, Spain and Argentina still followed the standard international soccer protocol by performing their own national anthems before kickoff.
While some international fans questioned why the Canadian and Mexican anthems were not included, American supporters embraced the moment. The patriotic atmosphere grew even louder when military aircraft flew over the stadium during the ceremony.
Social media was flooded with praise for Hudson’s vocals.
“What an amazing rendition of the national anthem.”
“Jennifer Hudson is spectacular!”
“What a performance by Jennifer Hudson.”
One fan even wrote that the stadium would have been “absolutely electric” if the U.S. national team had reached the final.
Hudson was not the only celebrity involved in the pre game festivities. Post Malone headlined the closing ceremony and surprised fans by debuting a new song, “Chrome Heartbreaker.” Robbie Williams, Nicole Scherzinger, Laura Pausini and streamer IShowSpeed were also part of the entertainment lineup, while Tom Cruise was scheduled to make a special appearance.
The anthem performance also served as a reminder of the last time the United States hosted the men’s World Cup. In 1994, Kenny G performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the closing ceremony before Brazil faced Italy in the final.
This year’s final was surrounded by even more attention because FIFA introduced the first halftime show in World Cup history. Madonna, Shakira, BTS and Justin Bieber were announced as the headliners for the 11 minute performance, which was curated by Chris Martin. The show also included Burna Boy, conductor Gustavo Dudamel, the PS22 Chorus with Coldplay, and characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets.
The halftime show was created to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to expand access to education and soccer programs for children around the world.
FIFA’s entertainment heavy approach has drawn criticism from some traditional soccer fans, who argue that the organization is trying to make the World Cup feel more like a major American sports event. The tournament has already faced complaints about lengthy ceremonies and hydration breaks that some viewers believe create additional television advertising opportunities.
The commercial stakes are enormous. FIFA expects to generate a record $13 billion during the current World Cup cycle, and attracting casual American viewers is a major part of that strategy. Early ratings suggest the plan is working, with Fox’s group stage broadcasts averaging more than 5 million viewers, nearly double the audience from the same stage in 2022.
Hudson’s performance came just before Spain and Argentina met in the championship match, with Lamine Yamal facing Lionel Messi in front of a packed crowd in New Jersey.
The ceremony began at 1:30 p.m. ET, and the final kicked off at 3 p.m. ET. English language coverage aired on Fox and streamed through Fox One and the Fox Sports app, while Spanish language coverage was available on Telemundo and Peacock.