Terrorist Threat Cancels Taylor Swift Concerts in Vienna

Taylor Swift's concerts in Vienna were cancelled due to a planned terrorist attack at the stadium. Austrian authorities foiled the plot, detaining suspects linked to Islamic State. Enhanced security had been planned, but the events were ultimately deemed too risky. Swift has not commented on the incident.

Taylor Swift's three concerts in Vienna this week were cancelled after the government confirmed a planned attack at the stadium, the organizers announced late on Wednesday. Austria's Chancellor Karl Nehammer stated that "a tragedy was prevented" thanks to the cooperation of police and the Directorate for Security and Intelligence (DSN).

"With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone's safety," Barracuda.music stated on Instagram, promising automatic refunds for all tickets. Austrian police detained two suspects involved in plotting the attack, according to Franz Ruf, director general for public security.

Franz Ruf mentioned that the 19-year-old suspect had focused on the Taylor Swift concerts and had pledged allegiance to Islamic State. Another suspect was arrested in Vienna. Police continued to search residences and analyze evidence, while local media reported that three suspects remained at large. Despite earlier assurances of heightened security, including anti-terror and bomb disposal units, the concerts set for Thursday through Saturday were cancelled. Swift, who is on her record-breaking Eras Tour, has not yet spoken on the matter.

(With inputs from agencies.)