Ed Sheeran addressed the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s removal from his US tour during a stripped-back Philadelphia concert. He said he had been drawn into a significant debate about free speech and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, while insisting that the decision was made by promoters rather than himself. Sheeran said his shows should be safe spaces for everyone and acknowledged making mistakes during difficult decisions.

The concert began without opening acts after several musicians withdrew, and attendance appeared low, with empty seats and delayed arrivals. Ticket sales for the remaining US dates declined, with some prices falling to $32 (£24), while fans reported receiving refunds that Ticketmaster and promoter Messina Touring Group had not confirmed. A small protest took place outside the stadium, but the concert went ahead with little disruption.