Ed Sheeran Cancels Gillette Stadium Shows Amid Weather and Gaza Controversy

Ed Sheeran’s planned performances at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, were cancelled because of a severe nor’easter. The decision came amid a broader tour disruption after rapper Macklemore was dropped for praising Palestine. Fans were offered refunds and the tour’s future dates remai…

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:05:08 GMT

Ed Sheeran’s highly anticipated shows at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, were cancelled on September 25 and 26, 2026, after a powerful nor’easter threatened the East Coast. The decision, announced by Messina Touring, the promoter of Sheeran’s Loop Tour, was made in consultation with local officials and prioritised the safety of fans, staff and performers.

Weather Forces the Call‑Off

The cancellation was triggered by a large nor’easter that was forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rain to New England. Forecast models predicted gusts of 40 to 55 miles per hour in the Foxborough area, with the storm expected to peak from Friday night into Saturday night. The severity of the weather warnings prompted the promoter to act swiftly, following a similar decision to cancel the Ocean Calling Festival’s first day in the region.

Messina Touring issued a statement on Instagram that read: "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 decision was made with the safety of fans, staff and everyone involved in the shows as the top priority." The statement also noted that refunds were available immediately at the point of purchase, and that Ticketmaster buyers would receive automatic refunds.

Gaza Controversy Adds to Turbulence

Sheeran’s tour had already been disrupted earlier in the month when opening act Macklemore was removed after chanting "Free Palestine" and performing a politically charged track at a New Jersey venue. The rapper’s comments sparked a petition from the Israeli‑American Council and led to the withdrawal of several other supporting acts—including Aaron Rowe, Finneas, Lukas Graham and Sheeran’s backing band Beoga—in solidarity with Macklemore.

Following the controversy, Sheeran addressed the situation publicly during a solo set in Philadelphia. He expressed his remorse for the handling of the situation and described the events in Gaza as "catastrophic and unjustifiable," while condemning the October 2023 Hamas attack. He also emphasized his desire for concerts to focus on unity rather than politics, though he acknowledged that the current conflict demanded a response.

Impact on the Loop Tour

The Gillette Stadium cancellations add to a series of setbacks for the Loop Tour. The tour’s schedule now includes a gap, and the future of the remaining dates is uncertain. Ticket holders who purchased through Ticketmaster will receive refunds automatically, while those who bought tickets elsewhere can claim refunds at the point of purchase. The promoter has not yet announced whether the shows will be rescheduled or permanently removed from the itinerary.

Stakeholders and Reactions

Robert Kraft, owner of the Gillette Stadium through the Kraft Group, had previously communicated with Sheeran, stating that the venue would not host the concerts unless Macklemore was removed. The decision to cancel the shows was also influenced by safety concerns for the venue’s staff and the broader community, given the potential for severe weather damage.

Fans expressed mixed reactions online. Some understood the safety rationale, while others felt disappointed that the shows would not proceed. Social media platforms saw a surge in posts discussing the cancellation, the nor’easter, and the ongoing Gaza controversy.

Looking Ahead

As of now, the Loop Tour’s future schedule remains in flux. The promoter has not confirmed whether the Gillette Stadium dates will be rescheduled or if the tour will continue without them. Ticket buyers are advised to monitor official channels for updates and to keep their receipts for refund processing.

In the broader context, the cancellation highlights how external factors—ranging from weather to political controversies—can impact large-scale music events. Organizers and artists alike must navigate these challenges while prioritising safety and public sentiment.

Key facts

Ed Sheeran’s Gillette Stadium shows were cancelled due to a severe nor’easter.
The decision followed the removal of opening act Macklemore over Gaza‑related comments.
Messina Touring offered refunds and cited safety as the primary reason for the call‑off.
The tour’s future dates remain uncertain, with no rescheduling confirmed.
The incident highlights the impact of weather and political controversies on large events.

Why it matters

The cancellation underscores the delicate balance between ensuring audience safety during extreme weather and managing the political sensitivities that can arise during high‑profile tours. It also illustrates how quickly event plans can change, affecting fans, artists, and venue operators alike.

Frequently asked questions

Why were the Gillette Stadium shows cancelled?

The shows were cancelled because of severe weather warnings from a nor’easter that threatened the area, and the decision was made after consultation with local officials to ensure safety.

What happened with Macklemore on the tour?

Macklemore was removed from the tour after chanting "Free Palestine" at a New Jersey concert, leading to the withdrawal of several other supporting acts in solidarity.

Will the shows be rescheduled?

As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding rescheduling; ticket holders are advised to monitor official channels for updates.

How can I get a refund?

Refunds are available immediately at the point of purchase; Ticketmaster buyers will receive automatic refunds, while others can claim refunds through the promoter’s website.