[Sportschosun Reporter Jang Jong-ho] British rock legend Rod Stewart, 81, is facing controversy after abruptly canceling a concert.
Questions are also mounting over whether he canceled the show so he could watch a World Cup soccer match.
According to foreign media outlets, including Daily Mail, Stewart suddenly canceled a concert scheduled for June 12 local time in Chula Vista, California, just 40 minutes before it was set to begin.
His team said the show could not go on because he was suffering from acute upper respiratory infection symptoms and laryngitis. It explained that medical staff advised him not to take the stage. He had even traveled to the venue in an attempt to perform, but the concert was ultimately called off.
The controversy began the next day.
Stewart was spotted flying to Boston with his sons on a private jet to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match between Scotland and Haiti.
He was also seen cheering enthusiastically from the stands during Scotland's 1-0 victory. A video even showed glasses containing wine and other alcohol on a table. In addition, he posted a clip on SNS showing himself with his sons inside the private jet, further angering fans.
Fans who were shocked by the sudden cancellation reacted angrily, saying, "How can he be too sick to cancel a concert but healthy enough to fly across the U.S. to watch soccer?" and "Thousands of people left disappointed outside the venue, so it's hard to accept seeing him celebrating on a plane just one day later."
One fan wrote, "I've loved Rod Stewart my whole life, but this is hard to understand," adding, "It's a cruel scene for fans in San Diego who were left disappointed and hurt." Another fan responded sarcastically, "Now I know why he canceled the concert."
Others, however, urged caution, saying, "Throat condition and the ability to travel may be separate issues." They noted that laryngitis or an upper respiratory infection can make it difficult to sing for hours, even if ordinary travel is still possible.
Right after canceling the show, Stewart posted a photo of the empty stage at the venue on his SNS and apologized. "I feel much better after treatment, but my voice has not recovered yet," he said. "I did everything I could to make the show happen, but it was impossible. I will do my best to reschedule."
Jang Jong-ho, Reporter Jang Jong-ho bellho@sportschosun.com
