Trudeau address backlash for missing Canada’s FIFA match for USA game with Katy Perry

Former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has responded after facing criticism online for missing Canada’s opening World Cup match to attend the United States game alongside his girlfriend, singer Katy Perry.

“Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I'm rooting for to take the Cup,” Trudeau wrote on social media, alongside a Canadian flag emoji.

Canada opened their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on Friday afternoon.

Hours later, Trudeau attended the USA’s 4-1 win over Paraguay in Los Angeles, where Perry performed during the opening ceremony.

Footage showed the pair embracing in the stands, sharing drinks and celebrating during the match.

Clips quickly spread online, with some Canadian football supporters criticising the former prime minister for not attending Canada’s historic home fixture.

One social media user described the move as “a slap in the face of this country. Distasteful doesn't begin to cover it”.

Others labelled Trudeau a “traitor” and a “fraud” as debate intensified online.

Trudeau and Perry have been publicly linked since July 2025 and confirmed their relationship on Instagram later that year.