Award-winning singer Taylor Swift has spoken out for the first time about the foiled terror attack that led to the abrupt cancellation of her concerts in Vienna, Austria.
The highly anticipated performances, part of her ongoing ‘Eras Tour,’ were scheduled to take place at Ernst Happel Stadium but were cancelled on August 7 due to an alleged terror threat.
In a heartfelt statement shared via Instagram on Thursday, the 34-year-old songstress expressed deep regret and guilt over the situation, acknowledging the disappointment felt by thousands of fans who had planned to attend the shows.
“Having our Vienna shows cancelled was devastating,” Swift wrote.
“The reason for the cancellations filled me with a new sense of fear, and a tremendous amount of guilt because so many people had planned on coming to those shows.”
Swift revealed that the news of the foiled attack left her shaken, but she chose to withhold an immediate public response, focusing instead on the safety of her European tour.
She expressed immense gratitude to the authorities in Vienna for their swift action in preventing what could have been a tragic event.
“I was also so grateful to the authorities because thanks to them, we were grieving concerts and not lives,” Swift continued. “I was heartened by the love and unity I saw in the fans who banded together.”
In her statement, Swift explained her decision to remain silent about the incident until now, emphasizing that her priority was the safety of her fans and her team. She noted that speaking out earlier could have potentially provoked further harm.
“My team and I worked hand in hand with stadium staff and British authorities every day in pursuit of that goal, and I want to thank them for everything they did for us,” she said.
“Let me be very clear: I am not going to speak about something publicly if I think doing so might provoke those who would want to harm the fans who come to my shows.”
Swift concluded by expressing relief that her European tour was completed safely, thanking all those involved in ensuring the security of her performances.
Her comments shed light on the immense pressure and responsibility she feels towards her fans, particularly in the face of such serious threats.
