The 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina in New Jersey became as notable for its surrounding spectacle as for the football itself, with Spain winning 1-0 after extra time thanks to a Ferran Torres goal. The occasion featured a record-breaking half-time show, a pre-match speech from actor Tom Cruise, an appearance by US President Donald Trump, and elaborate daylight fireworks, reflecting the tournament's heavy US-hosted showmanship despite being co-hosted with Mexico and Canada.

The half-time break lasted 27 minutes, the longest in World Cup history, featuring performances from Madonna, BTS, Coldplay, Shakira and Justin Bieber, though reaction was mixed, with former England striker Wayne Rooney calling it "crap" on Match of the Day. Trump, who had not attended any previous matches, arrived by helicopter roughly 20 minutes before kick-off and was later shown the trophy; he had earlier drawn controversy after admitting he asked Fifa president Gianni Infantino to review a red card shown to USA striker Folarin Balogun, whose subsequent ban was lifted.