Image Source: AP News
Finneas has withdrawn from Ed Sheeran’s Loop tour, saying he stands with Palestine and its people. The decision follows Macklemore’s removal from the tour after the rapper made pro-Palestine comments during two concerts in New Jersey earlier this month.
The announcement adds another major name to a rapidly growing list of artists leaving Sheeran’s international tour. According to Variety, Finneas was scheduled to perform as an opening act on six South American dates in late November and early December. With his departure, the Loop tour no longer has any supporting acts.
Finneas Makes Powerful Statement on Palestine
Finneas announced his withdrawal on social media shortly after Macklemore was dismissed from the tour. In his statement, the singer-songwriter wrote, “Artists must not be silenced when they speak up for the oppressed.” He then confirmed that he had decided to withdraw from his upcoming dates with Sheeran.
“I stand with Palestine and its people,” Finneas added.
The statement was brief but forceful, placing the Grammy-winning artist among performers who have publicly criticized the treatment of Palestinians and the suppression of political speech in the entertainment industry. Finneas did not provide additional details about whether he had spoken directly with Sheeran or the tour’s promoters.
Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour Loses Every Supporting Act
Finneas is the latest opener to leave the tour. Aaron Rowe and the Irish band Beoga previously announced their departures in solidarity with Macklemore. Lukas Graham followed shortly afterward, saying that artists should be able to speak about war, civilians being killed and children affected by conflict.
Rowe delivered one of the strongest responses. He said that, as Irish people, he and others understood the history of genocide, forced famine, violent occupation and resistance to colonization. Rowe added that he could not continue performing as normal while artists were being silenced for highlighting the deaths of children.
He concluded his statement with the words, “Free Palestine.”
Lukas Graham also described the decision as a matter of conscience. The group said it could not continue with the remaining dates while expressing concern about civilians and children caught in war. Their withdrawal came only minutes after Finneas shared his own announcement.
Macklemore’s Tour Exit Sparked the Backlash
Macklemore’s dismissal came after he made forceful “Free Palestine” comments at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sept. 4 and 5. The performances triggered a wider debate about political expression at large-scale concerts and the influence of powerful business figures in the live music industry.
In a statement released Monday, Macklemore accused billionaire Robert Kraft of orchestrating his departure by rallying other stadium owners to ban him. The rapper argued that his removal was connected to his public support for Palestine and his criticism of Israel’s military actions.
Ed Sheeran later addressed the controversy, saying that Macklemore’s departure was a promoter’s decision rather than his own. Sheeran also said he had attempted to intervene. His comments appeared designed to clarify his role as the tour’s headline performer while acknowledging the growing criticism surrounding the decision.
What Finneas’ Departure Means for the Tour
The loss of all supporting acts creates an unusual situation for one of the year’s major concert tours. Opening performers typically help build energy before the headliner and give emerging or established artists access to large audiences. Their absence means Sheeran will carry the complete performance schedule without the usual lineup of guest acts.
The controversy also highlights the difficult relationship between music, activism and commercial partnerships. Artists increasingly use concert stages and social media to address international conflicts, human rights and political issues. Promoters, venues and sponsors, however, may view such statements as potential business risks.
For Finneas, the decision represents a clear public position at a critical moment in the tour cycle. He was set to perform in South America during a high-profile run, but chose to give up those opportunities rather than continue under circumstances he considered inconsistent with his values.
The departures may also increase pressure on Sheeran, promoters and venue operators to explain how political speech is handled during live performances. Fans are now watching closely to see whether additional artists comment on the controversy or whether the Loop tour proceeds without openers as planned.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finneas and the Loop Tour
Why did Finneas leave Ed Sheeran’s tour?
Finneas said he withdrew in solidarity with Macklemore and in support of Palestine. He stated that artists should not be silenced when speaking for oppressed people.
How many Ed Sheeran tour dates was Finneas scheduled to play?
Finneas was scheduled to open six South American dates in late November and early December.
Which other artists left the Loop tour?
Aaron Rowe, Beoga and Lukas Graham also withdrew after Macklemore was dismissed from the tour.
Why was Macklemore removed from the tour?
Macklemore was dismissed after making pro-Palestine comments during concerts at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sept. 4 and 5.
What did Ed Sheeran say about Macklemore’s departure?
Sheeran said Macklemore’s removal was the promoter’s decision, not his own, and explained that he had tried to intervene.
