STORY
Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap will no longer perform at Glasgow’s TRNSMT festival this July after organisers withdrew the controversial band amid “safety concerns” raised by Police Scotland. The trio, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (aka Mo Chara), JJ Ó Dochartaigh and Naoise Ó Cairealláin, had been scheduled to appear on the opening night, 11 July, on Glasgow Green. Police Scotland warned that facilitating Kneecap’s performance would require a “significant policing operation” following increased scrutiny of the band’s on-stage rhetoric and recent legal controversies. Ó hAnnaidh was charged by the Metropolitan Police with a terror offence for allegedly displaying a flag supporting a proscribed organisation during a London gig. Footage from a 2023 concert, in which a member was heard chanting, “The only good Tory is a dead Tory” further amplified concerns over public safety and potential disorder.
In a statement on social media, TRNSMT organisers said: “Due to concerns expressed by the police about safety at the event, Kneecap will no longer perform at TRNSMT on Friday, 11 July.” The band responded with regret to fans who had booked tickets, travel and accommodation, stressing the decision was “out of our hands” and reiterating their love for Glasgow, where they have performed “many, many times” without incident .