Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has explained why he was absent from Canada’s opening match at the FIFA World Cup, saying “supportive boyfriend duties” took priority.
Trudeau made the remark in a post on X on Sunday after drawing attention for attending the United States’ World Cup opener against Paraguay instead of watching Canada’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup,” Trudeau wrote.
His comments came after he was spotted alongside his girlfriend, Katy Perry, during the USA-Paraguay match at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California, on Friday night.
The 41-year-old pop star had performed at the tournament’s opening ceremony before kickoff, while Trudeau watched from a luxury suite as the United States secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Paraguay.
The appearance sparked discussion among football fans, particularly because Canada had opened its own World Cup campaign earlier in the day. The Canadians fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto.
Canada’s match kicked off at 3 p.m. ET, while the United States faced Paraguay six hours later at 9 p.m. ET, allowing Trudeau enough time to attend Perry’s performance and the American fixture.
Despite missing Canada’s opener in person, the former prime minister reassured fans of his allegiance, making it clear that he remains firmly behind the Canadian national team in its quest for World Cup success.
Trudeau and Perry have attracted significant public attention since reports emerged linking the pair, with their appearance together at the World Cup adding to speculation and interest surrounding their relationship.
