Taylor Swift Tightens Security for UK Concerts Following Vienna Terror Threat
Taylor Swift has ramped up security measures for her upcoming concerts at Wembley Stadium in London, collaborating with local police and private security agencies to ensure safety. This decision comes after the cancellation of her concerts in Vienna due to a potential terrorist threat.
According to a report by TMZ on August 11, the organizers of The Eras Tour have implemented heightened security protocols to counter any risks of terrorism during Swift’s concerts scheduled from August 15-20. The local police will work closely with the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) and other relevant agencies to maintain the highest security standards.
Swift is working with FGH Security, a private firm specializing in counter-terrorism. Ben Knott, the CEO of FGH Security, told TMZ that his team typically manages the areas outside the event venues, focusing on spotting suspicious individuals. The security personnel, dressed in plain clothes or uniforms, are trained to engage with anyone acting suspiciously, such as those examining camera positions or police posts, by striking up casual conversations to assess their intentions. If anything appears off, they immediately alert the police.
To enhance safety, event management has prohibited fans from gathering outside entrances or on the Olympic Steps in front of the stadium. Any violators will be asked to move by the security forces, and outdoor listening events have been canceled.
TMZ noted that Wembley is considered one of the safest venues in Europe concerning anti-terrorism measures, thanks to the advanced security systems in place. However, organizers are advised to pay special attention to fans who might gather outside the stadium without tickets, eager to catch a glimpse of Swift’s performance. In late July, thousands of fans crowded a hill in Munich to “listen in” on her concert.
Swift’s concerts in Vienna from August 8-10 were canceled after authorities uncovered a terrorist plot targeting the events. The concert organizer, Barracuda Music, stated that canceling the shows was the only option to ensure audience safety. Ticket holders were assured of automatic refunds within 10 days of the announcement. Following the abrupt cancellation, many fans took to the streets to show their support for Swift, expressing gratitude for the authorities’ and singer’s decision.
Vienna police reported the arrest of three suspects connected to the plot. Among them was a 19-year-old Austrian citizen found with chemicals potentially used for bomb-making. The third suspect was apprehended on August 10.
In a press conference on August 11, a London police spokesperson told Time that there is no indication that the issues under investigation by the Austrian government would impact events in London.
Taylor Swift, 35, is a renowned American singer-songwriter who rose to fame with her country music in 2006. With 10 albums to her name, she has won 14 Grammy Awards and 29 Billboard Awards. In December 2023, Guinness World Records recognized The Eras Tour as the highest-grossing tour of all time, surpassing $1 billion in revenue. Swift’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.1 billion.
