Sir Rod Stewart has admitted that cancelling a concert in San Diego due to illness and then attending a World Cup match the following day "wasn't a good look." The 81-year-old rocker pulled out of his performance at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista, California, just hours before showtime on June 14, 2026. A statement at the time explained that medics advised him not to perform after diagnosing an acute upper respiratory infection, which later led to laryngitis.
World Cup Appearance Sparks Controversy
The next day, Stewart was spotted in the stands at Boston Stadium watching Scotland secure a victory against Haiti in the 2026 World Cup. He also shared an Instagram video showing him traveling to the game on a private jet with his sons, model Alastair, 20, and ice hockey player Liam, 31.
During an appearance on talkSPORT's White and Jordon show, Stewart addressed the backlash. Host Jim asked if he was feeling okay after he was seen using an oxygen tank on stage in Utah the previous week. Stewart replied, "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."
Stewart: 'I Did It for the Boys'
Explaining his decision, Stewart said, "But the truth is, Jim, I wasn't going to let my two sons down. I promised them since they were born that we were going to go to a World Cup. 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."
In the Instagram video, Stewart said, "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. 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!"
Health Issues and Oxygen Tank Incident
Stewart's health concerns have been ongoing. During a recent show in Utah, he used an oxygen tank and took a break backstage. Upon returning, he told the crowd he had "nearly f****ng fainted" but insisted "the show must go on." He joked with fans and asked if they would mind if he performed his next hit sitting on steps, finishing the show in a chair.
After cancelling the San Diego gig, Stewart issued a statement saying, "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." He posted a photo of himself on stage at the empty amphitheatre.
Upcoming Performances
This weekend, Stewart is set to headline Legends Day at Rock in Rio Lisboa in Lisbon, Portugal, alongside Cyndi Lauper and Joss Stone. Despite the controversy, he remains committed to his tour and fans.
