The shows which were scheduled to take place this evening (August 8), as well as August 9 and 10 at Vienna's Ernst-Happel-Stadion, were cancelled just hours after police revealed that they managed to foil an ISIS plot to attack one of Taylor Swift's shows at the venue.
Two suspects were arrested following this alleged plot. One of these suspects was a 19 year old living in his parent's home, which was raided by police where they found various chemicals and substances used for making explosives.
According to reports, the 19 year old suspect also pledged his allegiance to the Islamic State leader. Both suspects also reportedly became radicalised online.
Austrian Director General for Public Safety Franzy Ruf said: “The suspects were focused on the Taylor Swift concerts. We discovered that he was taking action to prepare for the attack. A clear threat has been averted".
Barracuda Music, the show's promoter, released this statement: “With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone’s safety. All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days. For more information, please visit: https://www.oeticket.com/HELP/UPDATES/”.
Authorities have said that the shows were expected to bring in approximately 65,000 concert attendees per day, as well as an extra 10,000 to 15,000 fans outside of the area.
Before cancelling the shows, Franzy Ruf also revealed that security at the concerts would also be increased.
At the time of writing, Taylor Swift's representatives were yet to comment on the matter.
