Rod Stewart, arguably Scotland’s most recognisable football supporter, has stirred controversy among his dedicated fanbase after cancelling a concert in California on Friday evening.

The 2026 World Cup kicked off on Thursday, and the 81-year-old singer, a lifelong supporter of Celtic and the Scotland national team, was seen celebrating Scotland’s 1-0 victory over Haiti in their opening World Cup match at Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Saturday.

Stewart’s scheduled performance in Chula Vista, Southern California, had been cancelled due to health issues. According to Hello!, the former Faces frontman was diagnosed with an acute upper respiratory infection and laryngitis, leaving him unable to perform near San Diego.

While his disappointed fans on the West Coast – many of whom are not particularly interested in football or Steve Clarke’s Scotland side – were left frustrated, images of the singer enjoying Scotland’s first World Cup win since 1990 quickly circulated worldwide. Stewart was spotted at Gillette Stadium soaking in the atmosphere and hospitality during the historic match.

Scotland’s lead came through a deflected strike from John McGinn – their first World Cup goal since Craig Burley’s effort at France 1998. Stewart appeared to be in good spirits, seated comfortably and surrounded by glasses of wine as he cheered for his team.

Before long, the singer’s presence at the match sparked a wave of online debate. “While many fans enjoyed seeing the singer’s excitement, others questioned how he was well enough to travel across the country after cancelling his concert less than an hour before he was due to perform,” reported Hello!.

The cancellation marked another setback in what has been a difficult period for the rock legend. “Earlier this month, Rod announced that several performances from his Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace would be rescheduled after doctors advised him to rest while recovering from flu,” the outlet added.

Although Stewart was not required to sing at a professional level during Scotland’s match, he did address his health situation on Friday, saying, “Following treatment, I’m feeling much better, but my voice is not. I’m very disappointed and sincerely apologise.”

At 81, Stewart has maintained a reputation for professionalism, and there has never been a suggestion that he would casually skip work obligations to attend a football match, regardless of his passion for the sport.

The singer is expected to return to the stage at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado on Monday evening. Meanwhile, Scotland will play their second Group C fixture against Morocco at Gillette Stadium on Friday.

Will Scotland give ‘Rod the Mod’ another reason to celebrate in Boston on Friday? Share your thoughts below…