Taylor Swift has been forced to cancel three of her highly anticipated concerts in Vienna, Austria, following the discovery of a potential terrorist plot.
The situation, which could have resulted in a devastating tragedy, led to the arrest of two individuals suspected of planning an attack on the Ernst Happel Stadium, where Swift was scheduled to perform.
Franz Ruf, Austria’s Director General of Public Security, confirmed that a 19-year-old Austrian citizen has been taken into custody.
He has been identified as the primary suspect.
Photo: Barracuda music website
Authorities believe the suspect had explosives at his home in Ternitz, leading to the evacuation of nearby buildings before his arrest.
Ruf also revealed that the suspect had sworn allegiance to the leader of the Islamic State in July, prompting authorities to take no chances.
Earlier today, a second suspect was arrested in Vienna, although details about this individual have not yet been released.
Barracuda Music, the company organizing the concerts, issued a statement:
"In light of confirmation from authorities regarding a planned terrorist attack on the Ernst Happel Stadium, where the concerts were to take place, we have no choice but to cancel the three upcoming shows to ensure everyone's safety."
The concerts, originally scheduled for today, tomorrow, and Saturday, were expected to draw 65,000 attendees per show, with an additional 20,000 fans anticipated to gather outside the venue.
While Taylor Swift has yet to comment on the cancellations, Austria’s Chancellor Karl Nehammer expressed his disappointment on X (formerly known as Twitter), saying: "The cancellation of Taylor Swift's concerts is a bitter disappointment for fans across Austria. The situation regarding the planned terrorist attack in Vienna was extremely serious."
"We are living in times where our Western way of life is under threat from violent extremists. We must not waver in upholding our values of freedom and democracy—these principles are the bedrock of our society and our best defense against extremism and terrorism. We must stand united and respond firmly against such threats," he added.
