Trump, Bieber and Shakira - a World Cup final like never before

What the report says

BBC Sport reported that the 2026 World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium was notable less for the match itself than for the spectacle around it. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal, to win the tournament for a second time. The report said the game offered relatively few major talking points on the pitch, while the surrounding ceremonies, security measures and political presence dominated attention.

According to BBC Sport, US President Donald Trump attended his first match of the tournament at the final, arriving by helicopter before taking a seat near Fifa president Gianni Infantino. Trump was later shown the trophy during the first half and joined Infantino during the post-match medal presentation. BBC Sport said there were boos when the pair appeared for the ceremony, and noted that Argentina defender Cristian Romero appeared to walk past Trump without shaking his hand.

The final also featured an unusually long half-time show, described by BBC Sport as lasting 27 minutes. Performers included Madonna, BTS, Coldplay, Shakira and Justin Bieber, while Robbie Williams and Nicole Scherzinger appeared in the pre-match closing ceremony. Actor Tom Cruise delivered a dramatic speech before kick-off. Former England striker Wayne Rooney, speaking in the BBC’s Match of the Day studio, strongly criticised the show.

BBC Sport also reported that heightened security, linked to Trump’s attendance and overseen by the US Secret Service, caused long queues before the match. Gates opened four hours before kick-off, and more detailed bag checks contributed to delays, though congestion eased and the final started on time.