Three events in Vienna, Austria were called off after two terrorism-related arrests
Pop star Taylor Swift has canceled three concerts in Vienna, Austria after authorities arrested two individuals suspected of planning terrorist attacks targeting the events.
Swift was scheduled to perform at Vienna’s Ernst Happel Stadium on August 8, 9, and 10 as part of her European tour. Venues across the continent have been sold out for weeks.
“With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone’s safety,” concert promoter Barracuda Music announced on Instagram. “All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days.”
Austrian police apprehended a 19-year-old who had pledged allegiance to Islamic State (IS, also known as ISIS) in Ternitz, a town south of Vienna. A second suspect was subsequently detained in the capital.
Franz Ruf, Austria’s director-general for public safety, informed reporters that the suspects, who allegedly self-radicalized online, had planned to attack Vienna and expressed specific interest in Swift’s concerts.
Organizers anticipated 65,000 concertgoers at each show and an additional 10,000 to 15,000 fans outside the arena, according to police. Vienna police chief Gerhard Purst stated that the risk warranted heightened security measures.
Police believe the 19-year-old suspect may have been constructing an explosive device, and are currently investigating the chemical substances found at his residence. The identities of the suspects have not been publicly disclosed.
Swift launched the Eras Tour in March 2023, aiming to perform 152 concerts across five continents, showcasing hits from her 17-year career. The 34-year-old singer is projected to earn $2 billion from the tour by its conclusion in December.