During the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening day, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was seen on a live feed in Los Angeles cheering a U.S. squad as his girlfriend, pop singer Katy Perry, performed at the global opening ceremony. He had arrived to watch the match that featured her short cameo before the start of the Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina draw in Toronto, which started five hours earlier.
On Instagram he posted a quick reply, “Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call, but you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup,” and added a Canadian flag emoji. This brief apology was framed as an attempt to balance his personal life with the competitive spirit of the tournament.
The clip of the pair laughing together at the match—capturing Perry handing Trudeau a kiss and both sharing a beer in the stands—spread quickly. Some Canadian fans branded the act as a betrayal, with one user calling it “a slap in the face of this country.” Others urged the former PM to respect his duties, labeling him a “traitor.”
While Canada drew 1‑1 with Bosnia, the U.S. now beat Paraguay 4‑1; Tyler was among the trio of Canadian supporters losing to the unexpected win. The 2026 World Cup, repeated by the host nation, has highlighted how star‑studded rivalries can polarize audiences globally.
Trudeau and Perry’s relationship, publicly confirmed in December 2025, has attracted media attention since meeting in 2025. Trudeau, the former 18‑year‑married and father‑figure of three, was last split from TV host Sophie Grégoire in 2023, while Perry is the ex‑wife of comedian Russell Brand.
