The Foo Fighters concert announced for Aug. 3 at Huntington Bank Stadium was abruptly pulled from the venue after a disagreement in vaccine requirements. Pearl Jam Announce Festival With Jerry Cantrell
Foo Fighters cancels concert; issues statement
The Minneapolis gig at the Gophers football stadium was announced Tuesday morning as part of the new Rock and Roll Hall of Famers’ 16-city tour. In the next hour, the band decided to withdraw its tour plan and soon issued a statement:
“Due to Huntington Bank Stadium’s refusal to agree to the band’s COVID policies, Foo Fighters are not going to be able to play at that venue,” the group’s statement read. “We apologize for any inconvenience and are working on finding a suitable replacement — one that will prioritize the health and safety of everyone working and attending the show.”
While vaccines have been required for University of Minnesota students since October (outside of medical or religious exceptions), Huntington Bank Stadium has not been requiring masks, proof of vaccine or negative test results for Gophers football games this season.
A University of Minnesota spokesman confirmed the stadium did not want to change its policies — or lack thereof — for this one concert:
“The University declined to change its existing protocols for large events, which have been effective since implemented,” U of M public relations director Jake Ricker said via email, highlighting the school’s high vaccination rate (over 95% of its campus area population).
“We continue to encourage everyone to get vaccinated, wear a mask when in large crowds, and take appropriate steps to protect public and personal health.”
Updates: Minneapolis, please see below – we hope to see you soon! Maryland/D.C., info on your show is coming shortly! pic.twitter.com/DhlPDG5QZD
— Foo Fighters (@foofighters) November 30, 2021