Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has voiced his support for American rapper Macklemore after the artist was removed from the US leg of Ed Sheeran’s Loop Tour. The decision to drop the rapper followed his public pro-Palestinian remarks during performances at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on September 4 and 5.
Hamilton shared his support by commenting on a lengthy Instagram post written by Macklemore, which addressed the tour removal. In his comment, the racing driver wrote: “Thank you for using your voice, standing with you.”
In his social media statement, Macklemore emphasized that he does not view himself as a victim in the situation. He reiterated that the primary focus should remain on the human toll of the genocide in Gaza. Following the rapper's remarks, the tour's promoter, Messina Touring Group, informed the artist that upcoming venues would not permit performances featuring him on the lineup.
Ed Sheeran has since issued a statement to distance himself from the decision. The singer attributed the removal of the support act to the concert promoters and venue owners. Sheeran noted that while he holds personal views regarding the genocide in Gaza, he chooses to keep those perspectives out of the public eye.
The removal of Macklemore has resulted in further fallout for the tour. Several other support acts, including Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Aaron Rowe, have withdrawn from the tour in a show of solidarity with the rapper.
