Macklemore has announced a new series of live performances titled the “Free Palestine” tour, which includes a headline date at London’s OVO Arena Wembley this October.
The American rapper confirmed the tour on 24 September 2026, revealing that all proceeds from the shows will be donated to 12 humanitarian organisations providing aid in the region. The announcement follows a period of significant industry friction after Macklemore was removed from the line-up of Ed Sheeran’s “Loop Tour” earlier this month.
Tour Schedule and Tickets
The “Free Palestine” tour is currently scheduled for three major European dates:
- Dublin: 26 October 2026
- Paris: 29 October 2026
- London: 30 October 2026
For the London performance, fans can access an artist presale via Macklemore’s official website starting at 10:00 on Monday, 28 September 2026. General ticket sales will follow at 10:00 on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. Further details regarding the London show and potential support acts are available through the OVO Arena Wembley website.
Controversy and Solidarity
The new tour was organised independently after Macklemore was dropped from Ed Sheeran’s high-profile “Loop Tour” in early September. The move by promoter Messina Touring Group reportedly came after venue owners threatened to block tour dates if Macklemore remained on the bill. This followed a speech the rapper gave at MetLife Stadium in which he called for a “free Palestine”.
While Ed Sheeran reportedly claimed the decision to remove the rapper was made by the tour’s promoters, reports suggested that venue owners had issued an ultimatum directly to the headline act’s team.
The situation prompted a wave of solidarity from other performers originally scheduled for the Sheeran tour. Support acts Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Aaron Rowe all withdrew from their upcoming dates in a show of support for Macklemore, leading to a substantial restructuring of the “Loop Tour” schedule.
Humanitarian Support
Macklemore has stated that the proceeds from the upcoming “Free Palestine” shows will benefit a total of 12 humanitarian organisations. Among the named beneficiaries are Medical Aid for Palestinians and UNRWA USA.
Specific support acts for the new tour are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Macklemore, known for hits such as “Thrift Shop” and “Same Love,” has become increasingly vocal regarding international human rights issues, a stance that has now seen him shift from a major stadium support slot to an independent arena tour focused on charitable fundraising.