Rod Stewart cancels a concert in California shortly before he is scheduled to perform, citing illness, but still attends a World Cup match soon afterward, drawing public criticism. Multiple outlets report that the singer, who is 81, calls off the gig hours before the scheduled start. Video and accounts of the event circulate online, including footage related to Stewart appearing to need medical assistance during the period in question. The controversy centers on the contrast between the abrupt cancellation and his later appearance at the World Cup. Several reports say Stewart is seen celebrating during the match, which leads fans and commentators to question the decision to cancel the concert while attending the game. Different sources describe the circumstances surrounding the cancellation and subsequent appearance, but they converge on the same sequence of events: a last-minute concert cancellation for health reasons, followed by Stewart’s attendance at the World Cup match within a day. The reports also include reactions from members of the public and fans, many of whom express disappointment or frustration, while the underlying reason Stewart gives for canceling remains focused on illness.