Justin Trudeau missed Canada game for Katy Perry: ‘Boyfriend duties call’

Former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has cited “boyfriend duties” as the reason for missing Canada’s first World Cup match and opting to support his pop star girlfriend Katy Perry, who was performing at the US opening ceremony.

The 54-year old was criticised for skipping his country’s first game in the international football tournament which is being hosted across three countries – the US, Canada and Mexico.

Taking to social media on Sunday, Mr Trudeau, responded: “Sometimes supportive boyfriend duties call. But you know who I’m rooting for to take the Cup.”

The post on X was completed with an emoji of the Canadian flag.

Perry was among the artists who performed at the opening ceremony in Los Angeles, marking the first World Cup match held in the United States since 1994.

Taking to the stage on Friday, she performed her song Wonder ahead of team USA’s game against Paraguay.

Other stars who took the stage included Tyla, rapper Future, Brazilian singer Anitta and Blackpink star Lisa.

The same day, Canada held its opening ceremony in Toronto which saw Michael Bublé and Alanis Morrisette perform.

Trudeau and Perry were first rumoured to be together in July 2025 and confirmed their relationship in December.

The politician was married to broadcaster Sophie Gregoire Trudeau for 18 years until they announced their split in 2023. The pair have three children.

He ended his nine-year run as Canada’s prime minister after announcing he was stepping down as Liberal Party leader in January 2025.

Perry was married to English comedian Russell Brand from 2010 until 2012 and was later engaged to Pirates Of The Caribbean actor Orlando Bloom.

The pair, who have a daughter called Daisy Dove, announced their split in July last year.

Perry shot to fame with her number one song I Kissed A Girl and has since had five UK chart-toppers including California Girls, Part Of Me and Roar.

She has also had two UK number one albums including 2010’s Teenage Dream and 2013’s Prism.