Robbie Williams hits Cole Palmer celebration during 2026 World Cup draw performance - The Mirror

Robbie Williams joined Nicole Scherzinger to sing 'Desire' at the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, DC, on Friday, and one part of his performance in particular had viewers speaking worldwide

Robbie Williams replicated Cole Palmer's famous 'Cold' celebration as he performed at the 2026 World Cup draw.

Popstar Williams was performing at the draw for the FIFA World Cup in Washington D.C. with the tournament being held in the United States of America, Canada and Mexico. The Stoke-on-Trent native was on stage alongsde Nicole Scherzinger as part of a star-studded ceremony that was presented by model Heidi Klum and comedian Kevin Hart.

Williams sung FIFA's anthem, Desire, alongside Scherzinger. The Village People were scheduled to sing their YMCA anthem once the draw had concluded. Being held in the John F. Kennedy Center, the draw also saw the award of the FIFA 'Peace Prize' for the first time. USA President Donald Trump was given the award, which is said to recognise 'exceptional contributions to peace and unity'.

“This is truly one of the great honours of my life," Trump said. "We have saved millions of live, the Congo is an example. We have been able to end so many wars, some even before they started. It is such an honour to be with Gianni, who I have known for so long."

England and Scotland were in the draw having qualified for the World Cup with Wales to contest a play-off in March. Ahead of the draw, former Three Lions boss Sir Gareth Southgate gave his verdict on what a nightmare lineup would be for his former side.

He suggested that England should hope to avoid playing Colombia, Japan or Scotland. "If you're thinking about the amount of Colombians that will go to those games in the States or Mexico, what an atmosphere that will be," he said.

He also confirmed his plans for the World Cup and the prospect of any media work. "I'm not going to do any media during the tournament," he said. "I think I've got to give them space."

"My role now is to keep out of the way!"

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