Kneecap Glasgow Gig Sells Out After TRNSMT Festival Removal

Irish rap trio Kneecap was removed from the TRNSMT festival lineup in Glasgow due to police safety concerns related to potential audience reactions and the significant policing operation required. The band, known for their Irish language lyrics and political statements, faced controversy after a member was charged with a terrorism offense for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a London gig last year, and criticism over past comments perceived as inciting violence. In response to their festival cancellation, Kneecap quickly announced a replacement concert at Glasgow's O2 Academy on July 8, where pre-sale tickets sold out in 80 seconds, setting a new record for the band. Despite the cancellation, the group maintains that they have performed in Glasgow multiple times without issues and expressed frustration that the decision was beyond their control. TRNSMT organizers and Police Scotland highlighted the safety concerns as the primary reason for the removal, emphasizing the need to ensure a safe event. Kneecap is still scheduled to perform at the Glastonbury Festival later in June, and the band denies the allegations against their member, asserting that attempts to silence them are politically motivated.