Tom Cruise, Jennifer Hudson among star appearances at World Cup closing ceremony
The World Cup closing ceremony featured high-profile performances from artists including Madonna, BTS, and Shakira. The event drew attention for its record-breaking length and the presence of numerous global celebrities in the stands.
Why it matters
The integration of massive entertainment spectacles into sporting events highlights the commercial and cultural scale of the modern World Cup.
Figure caption, Stars shine at half-time show
Pop giants Madonna, BTS, Shakira and Justin Bieber have performed for thousands of spectators at the World Cup final in a half-time show to rival the Superbowl.
Madonna, who sung her hit song Music - seemed to appear from tunnels under the arena, joined by Brazilian football legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.
The performances came in a half-time that ran to 27 minutes and 22 seconds - the longest in World Cup history.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Madonna was flanked by Brazilian greats Ronaldinho and Ronaldo
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Justin Bieber played guitar in his segment
The length of the half-time show had already caused controversy, with the International Football Association Board (Ifab) rules stating players are only entitled to a maximum 15-minute stoppage.
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