Ed Sheeran and Robert Kraft’s Philanthropy Proposal

Robert Kraft, the US stadium owner who removed pro-Palestinian rapper Macklemore as Ed Sheeran’s opening act, claims the British singer asked him to match a $2 million donation for aid in the region. Kraft shared this in a statement, revealing that Sheeran had reached out before Macklemore issued his own challenge to match a $1 million (£750,000) donation to Palestinian organizations.

Kraft wrote on Wednesday that Ed Sheeran had “asked me to commit $2 million to match his donation to aid in the region to fight this humanitarian crisis.” The stadium owner, who owns the New England Patriots, also noted that Sheeran plans to reach out to other venue owners to continue efforts to “build bridges.”

Macklemore’s Pro-Palestinian Challenge

The controversy began when Macklemore, real name Benjamin Haggerty, pledged to donate $1 million to Palestinian organizations, and urged Kraft to match the amount. The rapper, who was removed from Sheeran’s tour after calling for “free Palestine” on stage and showing images of Gaza, has since said he will donate the entire $1 million of his net earnings from the Loop Tour to six Palestinian organizations.

Kraft did not confirm whether he has agreed to match the $2 million donation or where the funds would go, but this is also the first time it has been suggested that Sheeran has made such a donation. The musician has not commented on any of his philanthropic plans.

Controversy Over Macklemore’s Removal

Kraft confirmed earlier in the week that he had banned Macklemore from performing at his Gillette Stadium for the remainder of Sheeran’s US tour, and the decision was met with backlash, with all remaining support acts,including Finneas, Aaron Rowe, Lukas Graham, and Beoga—quitting the tour in solidarity with the rapper.

Sheeran stated that the decision to remove Macklemore was made by the promoters, Messina Touring Group, and not by him personally. He said he would not cancel the tour, as it would potentially leave him and his promoters liable for costs related to venue hire and ticket refunds. The singer said he respects Macklemore’s stance but prefers to keep his platform non-political, emphasizing that his goal is to maintain a safe and open space for all audiences.

Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio also dropped Sheeran’s music in response to the decision to remove Macklemore from the tour, but the rapper has accused Kraft of having a history of antisemitic rhetoric, which the stadium owner denies. Kraft, who is Jewish, emphasized in his statement that he supports efforts to create opportunities for Palestinians and has worked to bring young Palestinians and Israelis together to build relationships.