IShowSpeed and Post Malone face criticism for lip-syncing at 2026 World Cup closing ceremony
Performances by YouTuber IShowSpeed and singer Post Malone at the 2026 FIFA World Cup closing ceremony drew social-media criticism for apparent lip-syncing, while the event also featured other musical acts and a speech by Tom Cruise.
The closing ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey featured performances by YouTube streamer IShowSpeed and singer Post Malone ahead of the Argentina-Spain final. Both artists were accused by viewers on social media of lip-syncing during their sets.
Speed’s rendition of his track “World Cup (Champions)” prompted comments such as “FIFA kicks off the World Cup Finals with a lip-syncing contest,” while some users described the performance as the “worst lip-syncing performance of all time.” Post Malone, who performed a new song “Chrome Heartbreaker” and invited Swae Lee for “Sunflower,” also received remarks that the act “could’ve tried a little harder to look real.”
The Independent sought comments from the performers but did not receive a response. After his set, Speed expressed on his livestream that the experience was “unbelievable,” admitting he felt “dumb nervous” and at one point “couldn’t even move my legs.”
Other acts at the ceremony included Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, and a rendition of the U.S. national anthem by Jennifer Hudson. Actor Tom Cruise delivered a speech. The event precedes a historic full halftime show for the final, slated to feature Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and BTS, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin and also featuring Burna Boy and conductor Gustavo Dudamel.