Photo via Yahoo Sports

Patriots' Robert Kraft responds to Macklemore, says no 'hate speech' at stadium

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has addressed recent controversy by defending the exclusion of musical artist Macklemore from Gillette Stadium, maintaining that hateful expression will not be permitted at the venue. Macklemore claimed that Kraft stepped in with an ultimatum that resulted in the rapper being ousted from Ed Sheeran's 2026 Loop Tour.

The dispute began after Macklemore proclaimed support for Palestine during opening performances on September 4 and 5 at MetLife Stadium. Following those appearances, Macklemore was dismissed from the remaining dates on the tour, an outcome he directly attributes to intervention by the NFL franchise owner.