Italian authorities have officially banned scheduled July concerts by American rappers Kanye West and Travis Scott in the northern city of Reggio Emilia, citing severe public order and safety risks.
The local prefect, Salvatore Angieri, ordered the cancellation of the back-to-back events at the 103,000-capacity RCF Arena after a provincial committee meeting on May 25.
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Travis Scott was set to perform at the Pulse of Gaia Festival on July 17, with Kanye West scheduled for the following day.
The decision responded to opposition from consumer group CODACONS, the Jewish community of Modena and Reggio Emilia, anti-fascist groups, trade unions, and local politicians.
Law enforcement and city officials cited logistical strain on infrastructure and a concrete risk of counter-protests within a 24-hour window.
This Italian ban follows a series of European cancellations for West.
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He was previously denied entry into the United Kingdom on April 7, 2026, and faced canceled dates in France, Poland, and Switzerland over past antisemitic remarks.
West, who is performing in Istanbul on Saturday, previously apologized for his statements, linking them to untreated bipolar disorder.
The festival, formerly known as the Hellwatt Festival, also faced internal controversy after removing its artistic director, Victor Yari Milani, in early May over management issues and rising costs.
While other international artists remain confirmed for the festival, early indications suggest Scott's performance may be postponed significantly into 2027.
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Ticket holders are advised to seek refund updates through Ticketmaster Italy.
