Robbie Williams headlined the World Cup 2026 closing ceremony alongside Nicole Scherzinger and Laura Pausini
Robbie Williams left World Cup viewers distracted(Image: JUAN MABROMATA, AFP via Getty Images)
The World Cup 2026 closing ceremony dazzled audiences around the globe ahead of one of the most anticipated finals in recent memory, as Spain prepared to face Argentina for football’s greatest prize.
Robbie Williams headlined the spectacular pre-match entertainment, taking to the stage alongside Nicole Scherzinger and Italian superstar Laura Pausini to set the scene for a historic occasion.
The star-studded ceremony served as the perfect curtain-raiser before Spain and Argentina kicked off in the World Cup Final, with millions of fans tuning in from across the world to watch the spectacle unfold.
Yet while the occasion was steeped in sporting drama, many viewers found their attention drawn elsewhere — specifically to Robbie Williams and the bedazzled blue tracksuit the Angels hitmaker chose for his moment in the global spotlight.
Within minutes of his set getting underway, social media was awash with reactions, with some fans struggling to even recognise the pop icon.
“I didn’t recognize Robbie Williams,” one viewer admitted, while another marvelled, “love seeing Robbie Williams.”
Others were simply fixated on his bold fashion choice. “I’m feeling the @robbiewilliams bedazzled track suit…,” one admirer wrote.
Some fans were also struck by a rather unexpected resemblance. “Robbie looks a bit like Paulie from The Sopranos,” with another joking, “Why has Robbie Williams come dressed as Donald Trump reports the Daily Star.
Someone else added, “Robbie Williams is absolutely brilliant before the start of the World Cup.”
Elsewhere, for the first time in World Cup history, there was a half-time show featuring performances by Madonna and Justin Bieber.
While some viewers were loving the performances, especially from Madonna, other fans, including pundit Wayne Rooney, were not as keen.
When asked what he thought about the star-studded performances, Wayne replied with such honesty.
“I’ll be honest, mine (highlight) was when it finished. I like a lot of those artists, but I thought it was c**p,” he said.
“I did, honestly. It just didn’t get me going. I want the football to come back on.”