The 81-year-old singer canceled his scheduled performance at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista, California, on June 12, 2026, less than an hour before he was due to take the stage. According to a statement from his team, Stewart was diagnosed with an acute upper respiratory infection that resulted in laryngitis, making him unable to perform.
However, on June 13, Stewart shared an Instagram video showing himself traveling by private jet to Boston with his sons, Liam Stewart, 31, and Alastair Stewart, 20, to watch Scotland compete in the World Cup.
Rod Stewart Travels to World Cup After Health-Related Concert Cancellation
In the video, Stewart appeared upbeat as he discussed Scotland’s return to the World Cup.
“Here we are flying off to Boston to see Scotland in the World Cup,” Stewart said. “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.”
The clip ended with Stewart and his sons enthusiastically chanting, “No Scotland, no party.”
Later that day, television cameras captured Stewart celebrating Scotland’s victory over Haiti from the stands, raising his arms in celebration.
Why Did Rod Stewart Cancel His California Concert?
The cancellation announcement was issued through Stewart’s Instagram Stories shortly before showtime.
“On the advice of his doctors and following a diagnosis of an acute upper respiratory infection that has resulted in laryngitis, he is unable to take the stage this evening,” the statement read.
Stewart later addressed fans directly, explaining that although treatment had improved his overall condition, his voice had not recovered sufficiently for a live performance.
“Following treatment, I’m feeling much better, but my voice is not,” Stewart wrote. “I’m very disappointed and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to my fans. I did everything I could to make the show happen tonight.”
According to Stewart, he had already traveled to the venue before doctors advised against performing.
Fans React to Rod Stewart’s World Cup Appearance
The timing of Stewart’s appearance at the World Cup generated mixed reactions online.
Many fans expressed frustration because the concert cancellation was announced only 45 minutes before showtime, leaving some ticket holders already at the venue or stuck in traffic. Reports indicated that many attendees received Ticketmaster notifications shortly before the scheduled start.
Criticism intensified when photos and videos emerged showing Stewart traveling across the country and attending the soccer match the following day.
Some fans questioned how serious the illness was if he was able to fly and attend a sporting event. Others defended the singer, noting that laryngitis affects singing ability but does not necessarily prevent someone from traveling or watching a football match.
The incident follows other recent health-related disruptions to Stewart’s schedule, including earlier cancellations linked to a severe sinus infection and doctor-ordered vocal rest.
Rod Stewart’s Upcoming Tour Dates
Despite the canceled California show, Stewart remains scheduled to continue his “One Last Time” North American Tour and upcoming international appearances.
His next performances include:
• June 15–16: Morrison, Colorado – Red Rocks Amphitheatre
• June 19: West Valley City, Utah – Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
• June 21: Rancho Mirage, California – The Show at Agua Caliente Casino
• June 27: Lisbon, Portugal – Rock in Rio Lisboa
• June 30: Valencia, Spain – Roig Arena
Stewart is also set to return later this summer for additional U.S. and Canadian tour dates, followed by a series of “Encore Shows” at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas beginning August 18.
Fans are now awaiting updates on whether the canceled Chula Vista concert will be rescheduled.
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