Kneecap correct BBC headline after TRNSMT show cancelled

KNEECAP have issued a correction after a BBC headline claimed that the band had "pull[ed] out" of the TRNSMT festival.

On Wednesday evening, it was announced that the Irish rap group would no longer appear at the popular Glasgow festival due to police concerns.

They were axed from the line-up by the promoters, DF Concerts, who said in a statement: "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."

Yet a BBC headline appeared to suggest that the decision was made by Kneecap, stating: "Kneecap pull out of TRNSMT over police concerns".

(Image: @BBCWestScot, via Twitter/X) Kneecap have since corrected the BBC over the headline, sharing the story on Twitter/X and writing: "Kneecap didn't 'pull out' of TRNSMT – Kneecap were removed."

The BBC's social media post has also been community noted – where social media users suggest context to posts – to reflect the fact that the band were axed and did not voluntarily pull out.

Kneecap didn't "pull out" of TRNSMT - Kneecap were removed. https://t.co/WsFv8POBta

— KNEECAP (@KNEECAPCEOL) May 28, 2025

In a statement following the announcement, the band said: "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."

The group has also announced a new concert at the O2 Academy in Glasgow on July 8, "to try to make up for it".

The decision from TRNSMT organisers comes after Police Scotland said last week that allowing Kneecap to perform at the festival would require "a significant policing operation".

A police statement on Wednesday 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."