Rod Stewart has cancelled a highly anticipated concert in California due to health concerns, only to be seen cheering for Scotland at the World Cup hours later. The 81-year-old musician’s management disclosed that the concert was called off following a diagnosis of an acute upper respiratory infection, which resulted in laryngitis.
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On Saturday, June 13, Stewart took to Instagram to share a video of himself flying to Boston in a private jet with his two sons, Liam, 31, and Alistair, 20. In the clip, the legendary singer expressed his excitement, remarking, “Here we are flying off to Boston to see Scotland in the World Cup. It’s been 28 years so these kids, I’ve told them about it, but they’ve never been. I’ve been to seven World Cups.” Their enthusiasm culminated in chants of “No Scotland, no party.”
However, this display of energy raised eyebrows among fans who were quick to question his apparent ability to travel so soon after cancelling a concert in Chula Vista, California. The cancellation came less than an hour before Stewart was slated to perform, and many fans took to social media to express their disappointment and confusion. One commenter highlighted the inconsistency, saying, “Too ill to perform but okay to fly across the country for soccer?” Another expressed their discontent, stating, “So you blew off all the people in San Diego that wanted to see you in concert but able to go to the World Cup?”
Stewart’s team had issued a statement on social media shortly before the cancelled concert, explaining that the decision was made on the advice of his doctors due to his acute respiratory infection. Despite travelling to the venue, they confirmed that he was unable to perform.
In a follow-up message, Stewart conveyed his regret over the cancellation, saying, “Following treatment, I’m feeling much better, but my voice is not. I’m very disappointed and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to my fans. I did everything I could to make the show happen tonight.”
Earlier in June, the “Maggie May” hitmaker had already postponed several residency performances in Las Vegas, as ordered by his doctor who recommended he take more rest following a bout of flu. The following week, he announced the cancellation of four shows and two further postponements associated with his extensive One Last Time Tour.
Pleading for his fans’ understanding, Stewart shared on Instagram, “So sorry, my friends. I’m devastated and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to my fans. I’ll be back on stage and we’ll see you soon – Sir Rod💔.”
As for his upcoming performance schedule, Stewart is set to take the stage at Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre on Monday, June 15, though many remain sceptical given his recent health issues. The stark contrast between his concert cancellation and his World Cup attendance certainly stirred mixed feelings among his fanbase. They now await further updates regarding his health and future performances.
Despite the contentious reactions, it is clear that Rod Stewart remains a passionate supporter of his home nation and is excited to share that experience with his sons, a moment he has long hoped to relive. Critical or not, his fans will be keenly watching to see how quickly he can return to performing at his best.