MARSEILLE, France — April 15, 2026 Kanye West has indefinitely postponed a planned concert in Marseille, France, following strong opposition from local officials and ongoing controversy over the artist’s past statements. The musician, who now goes by the name Ye, announced the decision on Twitter, writing: "Nach reiflicher Überlegung und Abwägung habe ich aus eigener Entscheidung beschlossen, meine Show in Marseille, Frankreich, auf unbestimmte Zeit zu verschieben." The post did not specify a new date for the performance, which was scheduled to take place at the city’s Velodrome stadium.
The move comes after Marseille Mayor Benoît Payan publicly criticized the concert in March, stating: "Ich weigere mich, dass Marseille eine Bühne für diejenigen wird, die Hass und enthemmten Nationalsozialismus verbreiten. Kanye West ist nicht willkommen im Velodrome, unserem Tempel des Miteinanders." Payan’s remarks reflect broader concerns in Europe over Ye’s recent behavior, including antisemitic comments and associations with far-right figures.
Pushback from French Officials
Mayor Payan’s opposition to the concert was echoed by other local leaders, who argued that hosting Ye would undermine Marseille’s reputation as an inclusive city. The Velodrome, a landmark venue known for hosting major sporting and cultural events, has become a symbol of unity in the region. Payan’s statement emphasized this, referring to it as a "Tempel des Miteinanders" (temple of togetherness).