Justin Trudeau has responded to online backlash after he was spotted watching the United States' opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with girlfriend and popstar Katy Perry instead of attending Canada's first game of the tournament.
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The former Canadian prime minister became centre of controversey after cameras captured him in the stands at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Friday. The United States secured a 4-1 win over Paraguay that day. Trudeau was seated alongside Perry, who had performed during the WC opening ceremony before kick-off.
His appearance raised eyebrows among football fans, particularly because Canada's opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina had taken place just hours earlier in Toronto and ended in a 1-1 draw.
Questions about Justin loyalties began circulating online. But Trudeau addressed the issue with a light-hearted post on X.
Reposting a New York Times article about his appearance at the World Cup, he wrote: "Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup" alongside a Canadian flag emoji.
