Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has responded to criticism after choosing to attend a FIFA World Cup match in the United States instead of watching Canada’s opening game in the tournament.
Trudeau faced backlash from some Canadians after appearing at the USA’s 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles, where his girlfriend, pop superstar Katy Perry, performed during the opening ceremony.
Addressing the criticism on social media, Trudeau wrote: “Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup,” accompanied by a Canadian flag emoji.
The controversy emerged because Canada’s opening World Cup match against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto took place just hours before the game in Los Angeles. Canada went on to secure a 1-1 draw in front of home supporters.
During the televised broadcast of the USA match, cameras repeatedly captured Trudeau and Perry together in the stands. Footage showed the pair sharing drinks and affectionate moments, while another widely circulated clip showed Perry greeting Trudeau with a kiss after leaving the stage.
The images quickly spread across social media, prompting mixed reactions from Canadian football fans and political observers.
One social media user described Trudeau’s absence from Canada’s opening match as “a slap in the face of this country,” while others labelled the former prime minister a “traitor” and a “fraud” as debate intensified online.
Perry performed the song Wonder during the World Cup opening ceremony in Los Angeles. The track, featured on her 2024 album 143, was selected instead of one of her many chart-topping hits because she felt it suited the occasion.
Speaking before the event, Perry said the ballad was particularly fitting as a ceremonial performance for one of football’s biggest global tournaments.
Trudeau and Perry have been romantically linked since July 2025 and officially confirmed their relationship through an Instagram post in December that year.
The former Canadian leader was previously married to television host Sophie Grégoire for 18 years before the couple announced their separation in 2023. They share three children.
Perry was previously married to English comedian and actor Russell Brand between 2010 and 2012.
While Trudeau’s decision sparked criticism among some supporters, others defended his choice, arguing that attending his partner’s major performance did not diminish his support for Canada’s national team.
