The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already drawing massive attention, not only from football fans but also from high-profile celebrities and public figures. One of the names making headlines was former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was spotted at the United States’ opening World Cup match against Paraguay in Inglewood, California. His appearance raised eyebrows because it came on the same day Canada opened its campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a match he did not attend.
The decision quickly sparked speculation online, with many social media users linking his attendance at the USA match to recent rumors involving Katy Perry. After facing criticism for seemingly choosing Team USA’s game over Canada’s opener, Trudeau addressed the situation, explaining that he was simply carrying out his “boyfriend duties” while attending the match alongside Perry.
Why Did Justin Trudeau Call Himself a ‘Supportive Boyfriend’ at FIFA World Cup 2026?
As questions continued to circulate over why he attended the United States’ FIFA World Cup opener instead of Canada’s first match, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the speculation directly. Sharing a report on social media, Trudeau explained his decision by writing, “Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup,” while adding a Canadian flag emoji to reaffirm where his loyalties lie.
Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup 🇨🇦 https://t.co/85DXvsyCPp
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 14, 2026
The explanation came after Canada’s opening match against Bosnia and Herzegovina ended in a 1-1 draw, while Trudeau was spotted at the USA-Paraguay clash. His appearance drew significant attention online, but the reason was tied to his relationship with Katy Perry, who performed at the tournament’s opening ceremony. Trudeau, 54, began dating the 41-year-old pop star following the end of his 18-year marriage to Sophie Grégoire Trudeau.
When Did Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry First Go Public With Their Relationship?
The latest public appearance of Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry came during the FIFA World Cup, where the pair were seen together in a luxury suite at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, watching the United States take on Paraguay. Rumors surrounding Trudeau and Perry first surfaced in July 2025 when they were photographed walking a dog together in Montreal. The speculation grew after the two were spotted having dinner at Le Violon, where restaurant representatives later said they appeared to have enjoyed the evening and even visited the kitchen to personally thank the staff.
Since then, public interest in their relationship has only intensified. Their World Cup appearance sparked fresh debate online, particularly because Trudeau chose to attend the USA match instead of Canada’s opener. Photos and videos from the stadium quickly spread across social media, drawing criticism from some Canadian fans. Earlier this month, the couple also made their red-carpet debut together at the premiere of Katy Perry: The Lifetimes Tour, where they were seen holding hands and celebrating together, further fueling attention around their relationship as the World Cup continues.