Kneecap will no longer be playing at the TRNSMT festival in Scotland this summer after the police voiced safety concerns, with a replacement gig at Glasgow's O2 Academy now scheduled in July.
Posting on social media, the Belfast rap act stated: "To the thousands of people who bought tickets, flights and hotels to see us play, we are sorry … it is out of our hands.
"Glasgow has always been a huge city for us. We've played there many many times, with no issues - ever. Make of that what you will. To try to make up for it, we will be at your O2 Academy on Tuesday July 8th."
They also quoted a statement from TRNSMT, which a festival spokeswoman confirmed on email saying: "Due to concerns expressed by the Police about safety at the event, Kneecap will no longer perform at TRNSMT on Friday, 11 July.
"We thank fans for their understanding."
A Police Scotland spokesman said: "Any decision on the line up at TRNSMT is for the organisers and there was no prior consultation with Police Scotland before acts were booked.
"Officers have highlighted the potential reaction of such a large audience to this band would require a significant policing operation in order to support the delivery of a safe event.
"We have also passed on information from the public around safety concerns to allow organisers to make an informed decision on the running of the festival."
In April, Scottish First Minister John Swinney had called for the organiser of the July festival to reconsider the group performing, following footage emerging that allegedly showed a member saying: "The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP."
Source: PA
