The highly anticipated Calabash South Africa 2026 music festival has been cancelled following the main draw card Muse’s withdrawal from their scheduled performances across multiple countries, organisers announced.
The British rock band is no longer able to proceed with their planned shows in the United Arab Emirates, South Africa and India due to unforeseen circumstances. Given the short notice and complex logistics involved in presenting the large-scale touring stadium festival, organisers were unable to secure a suitable alternative headliner in time, Big Concerts announced on Wednesday morning (14 January).
Both festival dates affected
The cancellation affects both scheduled events: 7 February at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg and 11 February at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, we will be unable to proceed with the upcoming scheduled shows,” Muse said in an official statement.
“This has been a very difficult decision and one we did not take lightly. We’re truly sorry to everyone who purchased tickets and appreciate your understanding. Refunds will be available from the point of purchase. We hope to be back with you again very soon.”
Supporting act Simple Plan expressed their disappointment at the cancellation. “We are so sad to hear that Calabash South Africa has been cancelled,” the band said. “We were so excited to finally return to South Africa and play for all our fans there and we’re very sorry that, because of the festival’s cancellation, it’s no longer possible this year.”
The Canadian pop-punk band added they were particularly looking forward to sharing the stage with Muse, A Day To Remember and Nothing But Thieves, and hoped to have the opportunity to perform with them again soon.
Automatic refunds for ticket holders
Fans who purchased concert tickets, parking, and park & ride tickets will automatically receive full refunds. The refund process has already begun and should take up to 5-10 business days to reflect in accounts. Ticketmaster will contact customers directly if payment details are no longer valid.
Organisers acknowledged the deeply disappointing nature of the cancellation for fans, artists, and everyone impacted by the decision, thanking supporters for their understanding during this difficult time.
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