When Tom Cruise was announced as a performer at the World Cup closing ceremony, many wondered what it would entail.
Cruise has become a global superstar for his roles in many blockbuster films, including Top Gun and the Mission: Impossible series.
The 64-year-old has also become famous for performing his own stunts, such as jumping out of planes and climbing skyscrapers.
However, Cruise’s performance before the World Cup final was nothing of the sort. Instead, he delivered an emotional speech.
He reflected on the previous six weeks of amazing moments, both on and off the pitch, ahead of the showdown in New Jersey.
Tom Cruise delivers emotional message before the FIFA World Cup final
Tom Cruise’s pre-match speech was random and arguably unnecessary, but it was certainly memorable.
Singing and dancing are to be expected, but no one expected to see one of the world’s greatest actors pour his heart out.
Here is every word of Cruise’s speech before the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium.
“More than 30 days ago, 48 nations began a journey,” Cruise began. “They crossed oceans, they crossed borders, they crossed cultures. And together they showed us why this game belongs to the world.
“From three countries across them, and from every corner of the globe, we have witnessed greatness. We have shared moments of joy, moments of hope, moments that we will all never forget.
“Football is a language spoken without words, a force that unites people, turns strangers into friends, and reminds us of what we all have in common.
“Today, only two teams remain: Spain and Argentina. But these stories belong to each and every one of us, to every nation, to every player, to every supporter, to every volunteer, and to every dream carried onto the pitch.
“So as we gather for one final chapter, let us celebrate a tournament that brought the world together. Let us celebrate each other. This is football. This is unity. This is greatness.”
Cruise’s speech was one of many unprecedented events at the 2026 World Cup final, as well as the halftime show.
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