Kanye West’s Planned Russian Stadium Concerts Cancelled

Concert organisers Say Agency have confirmed that two sold-out October shows in St Petersburg by Ye, the American rapper formerly known as Kanye West, have been cancelled.

Uncertainty surrounded the events after Gazprom Arena stated it had never signed a contract with promoters, alongside receiving complaints regarding the musician. Public outrage mounted as Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticised the planned performances, labelling them “unacceptable” owing to West’s “glorification” of Hitler.

Local politician Nikolay Novichkov demanded an investigation unless the artist offered “moral support for Russia and the special military operation”. Furthermore, pro-war bloggers questioned the decision to host an American act amidst ongoing US military backing for Ukraine.

The cancelled dates follow a broader global pattern of performance bans and visa denials across the UK, France, Poland, and Italy, driven by the star’s past antisemitic actions, Nazi imagery, and inflammatory music. Ye previously published an apology stating, “I am not a Nazi or an antisemite. I love Jewish people,” linking his conduct to a manic episode.

Say Agency announced ticket refunds will commence on 12 October.

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