
Fontaines D.C. fan told to ‘put Palestinian t-shirt in the bin’ at London gig
Kneecap were also performing.
London, UK – A concert-goer attending the Fontaines D.C. show at Finsbury Park yesterday reported being repeatedly stopped by security personnel due to his football jersey bearing the word "Palestine" in Arabic and an emblem of the Palestinian flag. The individual, who wished to remain anonymous, stated he was approached three times by security, who informed him his attire constituted a "political statement" and was therefore prohibited.According to the concert-goer, security staff initially suggested he dispose of the shirt if he wished to gain entry. He recounted refusing to comply and explaining the meaning of the Arabic text on his jersey. He also noted the perceived double standard, stating, "If I was wearing an Irish football shirt or an English football shirt, then I would have been allowed in."The man expressed his disappointment, particularly given the festival's reputation for hosting artists with politically charged messages, citing acts like Kneecap and Fontaines D.C. He was eventually permitted to enter the venue after prolonged discussions with security. The incident has sparked discussion online regarding freedom of expression at public events.
Kneecap were also performing.