Ed Sheeran’s Gillette Stadium Shows Cancelled Due to Severe Weather

Ed Sheeran’s two shows at Robert Kraft’s Gillette Stadium have been cancelled due to “severe weather warnings” – bringing an unexpected end to weeks of controversy surrounding the tour. The ‘Loop’ tour dates, which were scheduled for September 25 and 26 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, were officially scrapped by promoter Messina Touring shortly before the first performance was set to begin.

“Due to the severe weather warnings in place in Boston and across New England throughout the weekend and following consultation with local officials, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the Ed Sheeran concerts at Gillette Stadium,” the promoter stated. “The decision was made with the safety of fans, staff and everyone involved in the shows as the top priority.” Ticketmaster purchases will be refunded automatically, with other refunds available from the original point of purchase.

A Period of Tour Controversy

The cancellation comes amidst a period of intense scrutiny regarding the tour. The Gillette Stadium dates had become the center of a heated debate following the removal of Macklemore from the lineup. The rapper had previously faced criticism after making a speech in support of Palestinians during a performance at MetLife Stadium. Gillette Stadium owner Robert Kraft had expressed strong objections to the performance, leading to the rapper's removal from subsequent dates.

Ed Sheeran addressed the fallout, stating that the decision was ultimately made by the promoter after various venues indicated they would pull shows if the support act remained on the bill. The situation escalated as other artists, including FINNEAS, withdrew from the tour in solidarity. Sheeran later apologized for his handling of the controversy, noting that the experience had led him to question his future as an artist.

Widespread Weather Impact

The cancellation of Sheeran's shows is part of a broader trend of event disruptions caused by a powerful nor’easter moving along the US East Coast. The storm has brought heavy rain, damaging winds, and coastal flooding to the region, forcing the cancellation of several major events. The Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, the New York edition of All Things Go, and Brooklyn’s CBGB Festival have all been pulled. Additionally, AC/DC’s performance at MetLife Stadium has been postponed to October 2.