New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft confirmed Monday that he barred rapper Macklemore from opening for Ed Sheeran at Gillette Stadium due to the performer's recent accusations that Israel was committing genocide in Gaza.

In his statement, Kraft cited Macklemore's onstage comments at a prior tour stop in New Jersey, along with what he described as a broader history of antisemitic rhetoric and imagery. The venue, owned by the Kraft Group, maintains a policy against providing a platform for hate speech, Kraft said.

Robert Kraft
Credit: Robert Kraft

Macklemore had claimed on social media that Kraft contacted Sheeran and rallied other stadium owners to issue an ultimatum, leading to the rapper's removal from the entire tour. Kraft acknowledged his role in the decision but framed it as necessary to avoid divisive content.

"This decision is not about diminishing the suffering of innocent Palestinians or denying anyone the right to advocate on their behalf," Kraft stated. "Their pain and loss are real. But that advocacy should not come at the expense of the Jewish community or obscure the responsibility of Hamas."

Kraft noted agreement that too many lives have been lost but argued that selective information ignoring Hamas's actions promotes divisiveness. He extended an offer to discuss the facts with Macklemore, emphasizing shared goals of peace and an end to hate.

The controversy arose after Macklemore's performance at MetLife Stadium, where he called for a "Free Palestine" and displayed images related to the Gaza conflict. Several other venues reportedly joined in objecting to his inclusion.

Kraft, a prominent supporter of Israel and the Jewish community, has long directed resources toward initiatives in the region while condemning terrorism. The episode highlights tensions over expressions of support for Palestinians that cross into rhetoric seen as harmful by many Jewish groups.