The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final started with music, colour, and big surprises. However, the biggest talking point was IShowSpeed. The famous streamer thrilled more than 80,000 fans at MetLife Stadium before Spain faced Argentina. He walked onto the pitch with dancers and drummers wearing colourful outfits.
Soon after, Post Malone followed with a performance of his hit song “Wow.” The star-studded ceremony also featured Jennifer Hudson, who delivered the national anthem. Meanwhile, celebrities like Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams, Laura Pausini, and Nicole Scherzinger added more glamour to the event.
Fans Were Stunned at IShowSpeed’s Performance
For many fans, IShowSpeed stole the spotlight. The 21-year-old influencer, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., delivered an energetic performance that surprised even his biggest supporters. Although millions know him for his funny livestreams and football passion, many never expected him to sing on one of football’s biggest stages. As a result, social media quickly exploded with reactions. One fan wrote,
“So IShowSpeed is also a singer? Wowww! What a wonderful performance.”
Another said,
“Ishowspeed also sings? Bruh what can’t this man do lol.”
A different fan praised his journey, saying,
“From not being included on the official soundtrack to releasing a song that was later officially recognized by FIFA, and now performing on the FIFA World Cup stage. Take a bow, IShowSpeed.”
Others simply could not believe what they were watching.
“The fact that IShowSpeed is singing and performing at the World Cup is so random. Since when does he know how to sing and perform,” another fan posted.
The entertainment continued after the opening ceremony. FIFA planned a Super Bowl-style half-time show featuring Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, and Burna Boy. The performance was expected to last about 11 minutes during a longer 20 to 25-minute break.
Coldplay’s Chris Martin helped create the show, which also aimed to raise money for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. The project hopes to generate $100 million for children’s education around the world. Before the match, Marine One carrying United States President Donald Trump also flew over the stadium, adding another memorable moment to an already spectacular event.
IShowSpeed’s appearance marked another major milestone in his growing career. The streamer attended every knockout match during the tournament and has become one of football’s biggest online personalities. Today, he has a combined audience of more than 184 million followers across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms. His surprise World Cup performance has now introduced another side of his talent. Whether fans expected it or not, one thing is clear.
IShowSpeed turned the FIFA World Cup Final into another unforgettable moment and had got people asking the same question: what will he do next?
