April 28, (THEWILL) — A trial began in Austria on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, over a foiled plot to attack a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna in August 2024.
A 21-year-old Austrian man, identified as Beran A, is accused of planning and preparing a terrorist attack linked to the singer’s cancelled shows.
He is facing charges of terrorism and membership in a terrorist organization.
He appeared in court in Wiener Neustadt, south of Vienna, alongside another 21-year-old man, Arda K., who is also accused of involvement in extremist activity.
Prosecutors say the plot was uncovered after intelligence from the CIA was passed to Austrian authorities shortly before Swift’s scheduled concerts.
All three of her Vienna shows were subsequently canceled as a result.
Authorities claim the suspects planned to target crowds outside the stadium using knives and homemade explosives.
Investigators also allege that the pair had links to the Islamic State group and had accessed online instructions for making explosives.
Beran A. is also accused of attempting to illegally obtain weapons and of receiving training related to explosives.
The main suspect, Beran A., pleaded guilty to the charges, including planning a terrorist attack.
His lawyer indicated that he intends to plead guilty to some of the other charges as well.
Swift later expressed her devastation over the cancellation of her Vienna shows, saying the situation left her with “fear” and “guilt.”
The trial is expected to continue until May.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
