Tom Cruise calls for unity at FIFA World Cup final: ‘Celebrate Each Other’

20 July 2026, 11:13 AM

UPDATED 20 July 2026, 11:13 AM

Arts & Entertainment Desk

Actor Tom Cruise delivered a moving speech during the closing ceremony of FIFA World Cup 2026 final. Photo: Reuters

Tom Cruise made a surprise appearance during the pre-match ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where he spoke about football's unique power to bring people together. His remarks came ahead of the highly anticipated showdown between Spain and Argentina.

Addressing the crowd before kick-off, the "Digger" star reflected on the tournament's worldwide impact and the way it connects people across cultures and borders.

Reflecting on the tournament, Cruise noted that more than a month earlier, 48 nations had embarked on a shared journey, travelling across oceans, borders and cultures to compete on football's biggest stage. He said their participation demonstrated why the sport truly belongs to the world.

He went on to praise the tournament for bringing together people from across the globe, creating unforgettable moments filled with joy and hope. According to Cruise, football transcends language, serving as a universal force that connects people, fosters friendships among strangers and highlights the shared bonds that unite humanity.

Wrapping up his speech, Cruise urged fans to cherish the spirit of togetherness that had defined the tournament. As the competition reached its final chapter, he called on people to celebrate not only the event itself but also one another, describing football as a symbol of unity and a showcase of human greatness.

Spain edged past Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift their second FIFA World Cup trophy.

The 2026 World Cup final also made history with FIFA's first-ever Super Bowl-inspired halftime show. The star-studded spectacle featured performances by Justin Bieber, BTS, Shakira and Madonna, while Jennifer Hudson delivered the national anthem before the match. The event also drew a host of high-profile attendees, including Beyoncé, Matt Damon and Timothée Chalamet.

One of the night's more playful moments saw Cruise stopping to pose for photos with beloved "Sesame Street" characters Elmo and Cookie Monster on the sidelines. The image was later shared on Elmo's official X account, delighting fans online.

Cruise is no stranger to major global sporting events. At the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, he made a dramatic entrance by rappelling from the roof of the Stade de France before riding off on a motorcycle carrying the Olympic flag.