The 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina was supposed to be a celebration of football, but for thousands of fans, it began with hours of queuing and frustration. Supporters faced delays of up to two hours to enter MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with long queues forming more than four hours before kick-off. The unprecedented security measures were largely due to the presence of United States president Donald Trump, who attended the match and planned to present the trophy. The Secret Service took over security, introducing airport-style scanners that slowed entry. Even accredited media faced delays as extra checks were carried out on their equipment. Despite the chaos, no disruption to the match itself was anticipated.
The final itself saw Spain and Argentina play out a 0-0 draw in the first half, before entering extra time. The half-time show, curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin, lasted 27 minutes and featured Madonna, Brazilian legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and Burna Boy. The performance drew mixed reviews: Wayne Rooney called it “crap” on BBC coverage, while Gary Neville said he enjoyed it. Before the match, Robbie Williams performed a pregame set. Among the celebrity attendees were Mick Jagger, Anya Taylor-Joy, and the Beckhams.
“2026 World Cup final faced fan chaos due to Trump's security; half-time show mixed; Martinez injured.”
The choice of MetLife Stadium for the final had been criticised throughout the tournament due to its location away from Manhattan, lack of a roof, and poor pitch quality. Brazil star Vinicius Jr had previously criticised the playing surface. Heavy thunderstorms on the eve of the game forced Spain to cancel training, and flash flooding hit the region. Air quality was also a concern due to Canadian wildfires.
For UK readers, the final was broadcast live on BBC and ITV. Manchester United fans will be particularly concerned after defender Lisandro Martinez limped off injured during the match, a blow to the club ahead of the new season. Trump, speaking to Fox before the game, revealed he was backing Argentina because of Lionel Messi, calling him “great” and noting his “perfect” semi-final assist against England. He also said he had already asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to bring the World Cup back to the United States soon.
Q: Why were there long queues at the World Cup final? Trump’s attendance meant the Secret Service took over security, adding extra checks such as airport-style scanners. Fans faced two-hour waits, and volunteers noted that the number of early arrivals was much higher than at previous matches at the stadium.
Q: Who performed at the World Cup final half-time show? Madonna, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and Burna Boy performed. The show lasted 27 minutes, well beyond the customary 15-minute interval, and was curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
Q: What happened to Lisandro Martinez in the final? The Manchester United defender limped off injured during the match, dealing a blow to his club ahead of the new season. No further details on the severity were immediately available.
What happens next: The match went to extra time after a goalless first half. Trump has indicated he wants the World Cup to return to the US again soon, having already raised the idea with FIFA. The controversy over security and stadium suitability will likely fuel debate about future tournament hosting.