Sir Rod Stewart has admitted that cancelling a concert due to laryngitis and then appearing at the FIFA World Cup the following day was not a 'good look.' The 81-year-old singer, currently on his 'One Last Time' tour, was scheduled to perform in Chula Vista, California earlier this month but cancelled hours before the show. Medical professionals advised against performing after he was diagnosed with an acute upper respiratory infection that developed into laryngitis.
From Cancelled Gig to World Cup Appearance
Just a day after the cancellation, Stewart was photographed at Boston Stadium watching Scotland triumph over Haiti in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Speaking on talkSPORT's White and Jordon programme, Stewart addressed the controversy. Presenter Jim asked about the singer's wellbeing, following footage of him using an oxygen tank during a performance in Utah the previous week.
Stewart had taken a brief interval backstage during the Utah show and, after returning, told the audience he had 'nearly f***ing fainted' but insisted 'the show must go on.' He completed the performance from a chair after asking fans if they minded him sitting on the stage steps.
Stewart's Explanation: 'I Did It for the Boys'
Reflecting on the incident, Stewart said: 'No, I got an awful... I really shouldn't have gone to the Haiti game. You know, I had to cancel a show the night before because I just had no voice left. But the truth is, Jim, I wasn't going to let my two sons down.' He explained that he had promised his sons, model Alastair, 20, and ice hockey player Liam, 31, since they were born that they would attend a World Cup together. 'And this is the first one that's come about. And it wasn't a good look, I admit, but I'm going to have to just take the stick. So I did it for the boys.'
Social Media Reaction and Fan Comments
At the time of the match, Stewart posted a video on Instagram showing him travelling on a private jet with his sons. 'Here we are off to see Scotland in the World Cup. It's been 28 years. And these kids, I've told them about it but they've never been,' he said. 'I've been to seven World Cups. We want to get through to the next round and I'll die a happy man. So go on, Scotland!' The three then chanted 'No Scotland, no party!'
One fan commented: 'Missed you last night in San Diego, Rod - we hope you are doing better!!' Another replied: 'Seems like he is on the mend.' In his cancellation statement, Stewart said: 'I'm very disappointed and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to my fans. I did everything I could to make the show happen tonight, but unfortunately it just wasn't possible. I will do my utmost to reschedule.'
Tour and Future Plans
The 'Maggie May' singer has previously joked about not quitting, insisting he still has plenty of music left. His 'One Last Time' tour, running since 2024, included a Legends slot at Glastonbury Festival. He has hinted at stepping away from performing after a final British tour. This weekend, Stewart will headline Legends Day at Rock in Rio Lisboa in Portugal, sharing the stage with Cyndi Lauper and Joss Stone.
