Slovakia festival cancelled following outcry over Kanye West appearance
A festival has been cancelled in Slovakia after public outcry about Kanye West performing. Rubicon Festival was set to occur from July 18th to July 20th, marking the rapper’s only scheduled show for 2025.
However, a petition was launched in June to stop Ye from performing at the festival over his comments about Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, which included the release of a highly antisemitic recent song.
“The Kanye West concert in our city and in our country is an insult to historical memory, a glorification of war violence and a humiliation of all victims of the Nazi regime – including Holocaust survivors, Slovak soldiers, civilians, political prisoners, partisans and their families, members of the Jewish community in Bratislava,” the petition read.
Just weeks later, Rubicon announced that the Bratislava festival would no longer go ahead, citing pressure from outside parties.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances , including external pressure and logistical challenges, we regret to inform you that the Rubicon Festival will not take place this year,” the statement read. “We understand this new is disappointing, we and truly apologise for any inconvenience it may have caused.”
The festival expanded more about the cancellation in the caption, while sharing details about refunds for those who had purchased tickets.
“This was not an easy decision,” they wrote. “Due to media pressure and the withdrawal of several artists and partners, we were unable to deliver the festival at the standard of quality you deserve. We are truly grateful for your support and trust.
“For those who have purchased tickets, please be patient – all refund information will be sent via email within 14 days. This is not the end of Rubicon. We are not giving up. We’re already working to come back stronger.”
As well as West, the lineup also included Offset, Sheck Wes, Ken Carson, UFO361, Voyage, Gzuz, and DJ Spade.
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