Kneecap Dropped from TRNSMT Festival Over Safety Fears – But They’ll Still Play Glasgow

Hey festival fam—some not-so-great news out of Glasgow this week. Irish rap trio Kneecap have officially been dropped from this year’s TRNSMT festival after concerns from the police about—you guessed it—public safety and policing.

Yep, it’s a bit of a bombshell for fans who’d already snapped up tickets, booked flights and sorted hotels for what promised to be a raucous Friday night on Glasgow Green. According to the band, they were told: “Due to concerns expressed by the police about safety at the event, Kneecap can no longer perform at TRNSMT.”

In a heartfelt message to fans, Kneecap said: “To the thousands of people who bought tickets, flights, and hotels to see us play, we are sorry… it is out of our hands.”

They also shared their love for Glasgow, calling it a city that’s always shown them a warm welcome: “We’ve played there many times, with no issues—ever. Make of that what you will.”

To soften the blow a little, Kneecap have announced a consolation gig at the O2 Academy on Tuesday, July 8—so Glaswegians, you’ll still get your chance to party with them.

So, what’s behind all the drama? Well, last week Police Scotland flagged that allowing Kneecap to perform at TRNSMT on July 11 would require “a significant policing operation.” It’s not just about their wild shows, though. One of the band’s members—Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (aka Mo Chara)—was recently charged with a terror offence after allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a London gig. He’s due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on June 18.

And it’s not the first time the band has courted controversy. Last year, footage emerged of one of the group telling a crowd: “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP!” Yikes. That prompted Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, to back calls for Kneecap to be removed from TRNSMT.

DF Concerts, the team behind TRNSMT, confirmed the band’s removal in a short statement: “Due to concerns expressed by the police about safety at the event, Kneecap will no longer perform at TRNSMT on Friday, July 11.”

But while they’re off the TRNSMT bill, they’re still listed to perform at Glastonbury on June 28. And let’s not forget their Coachella set earlier this year, where they used the stage to project pro-Palestinian messages and lead an anti-Margaret Thatcher chant—talk about making headlines.

So, Glasgow fans—don’t pack up your party shoes just yet. Kneecap might be off TRNSMT, but they’ll be raising the roof at the O2 Academy. Just remember to keep things safe and respectful, okay?

Stay tuned for more festival updates, and as always—play it loud and proud!