28-05-2025
Kneecap will no longer perform at TRNSMT festival amid ‘safety concerns'
Irish rap tree Kneecap are no longer performing at TRNSMT festival in July due to 'concerns expressed by the Police.'
The announcement was made on Wednesday evening following concerns from Police Scotland that a 'significant policing operation' would be required for the band to perform in Glasgow.
It comes after band member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara, was earlier in the month charged with a terrorism offence in the United Kingdom. Irish rap tree Kneecap are no longer performing at TRNSMT festival in July due to 'concerns expressed by the Police.' Pic: Brian Lawless/PA Wire
The 27-year-old is charged after displaying a Hezbollah flag at one of their concerts at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London last November.
Taking to X on Wednesday evening, the Northern Ireland band apologised as they confirmed they wouldn't be performing at TRNSMT in July.
They said: ''Due to concerns expressed by the Police about safety at the event, Kneecap can no longer perform at TRNSMT.' It comes after band member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara, was earlier in the month charged with a terrorism offence in the United Kingdom. Pic: Nils Jorgensen/REX/Shutterstock
'To the thousands of people who bought tickets, flights and hotels to see us play, we are sorry… it is out of our hands.
'Glasgow has always been a huge city for us. We've played there many many times, with no issues — ever. Make of that what you will.'
The trio scheduled a replacement gig at the O2 Academy in July 'to try to make up for it.' The trio scheduled a replacement gig at the O2 Academy in July 'to try to make up for it.' Pic: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Anadolu via Getty Images
A statement from Police Scotland said: 'Officers have highlighted the potential reaction of such a large audience to this band would require a significant policing operation in order to support the delivery of a safe event.
'We have also passed on information from the public around safety concerns to allow organised to make an informed decision on the running of the festival.'
Elsewhere, Cheltenham-based music festival 2000trees Festival has confirmed the band were still headlining the Thursday of the festival.
Taking to X on Wednesday, festival organisers said: 'After loads of speculation & numerous requests from the press of late, we are happy to confirm that YES! Kneecap are still headlining the Thursday at 2000trees this July.
'You may have seen Kneecap at 2000trees before, this will be their 3rd visit after all. But headlining the main stage this summer is going to be something else entirely.'
