Canadian rapper Drake has postponed his planned performance in Manchester on Monday, July 28, 2025, due to what organisers described as “unforeseen ferry schedule and travel logistics.” The announcement was made by the Co-op Live arena, where the show was originally scheduled to take place. The rescheduled concert will now take place on Tuesday, August 5, and organisers confirmed that all previously purchased tickets will remain valid for the new date.
The postponement marks a disruption in what has otherwise been a high-energy leg of Drake’s European tour. The artist had already performed two consecutive nights at the Co-op Live venue on July 25 and 26, to sold-out crowds. He is also expected to perform at the same venue again on August 4, just one day before the new date for the rescheduled show.
Despite the assurances from event organisers, many fans took to social media to express their frustration and disappointment. Some criticised the short notice, calling it inconsiderate to those who had travelled from abroad or taken time off work. One attendee said he had extended his unpaid leave in Dubai specifically to see Drake on the 28th, calling the last-minute cancellation “a joke.” Another fan dismissed the explanation as a “lame excuse of travel logistics,” questioning the professionalism of the tour’s planning.
The affected concert is part of Drake’s current “Some Special Shows 4 U” tour, his first full-scale European arena tour in six years. The tour has drawn huge crowds and features co-headliner PARTYNEXTDOOR. The pair recently released a joint album titled “Some Sexy Songs 4 U,” which they are promoting throughout the tour. The schedule includes performances in major cities such as London, Birmingham, Paris, Milan, and Amsterdam, with more than 35 dates confirmed.
Drake’s time in Manchester has been eventful even beyond the stage. Just days before the now-postponed concert, he released a surprise new single with UK rapper Central Cee titled “Which One.” The track debuted during a live episode of his Iceman stream, filmed around various Manchester landmarks including Piccadilly railway station and Victoria Baths. The release has received wide acclaim, with fans praising the chemistry between the two artists and the gritty, urban visual setting of the stream.
The rapper’s Manchester shows have been described by fans as both high-energy and emotionally resonant, blending chart-topping hits like “Hotline Bling,” “God’s Plan,” and “One Dance” with deeper cuts and recent collaborations. Each performance spans more than three hours and features an extensive setlist, with over 40 songs in some cases.
While some fans are understandably disappointed by the change of plans, organisers are urging ticket holders to hold onto their tickets, as no action is required to attend the new date. Refunds will be made available only to those who can’t attend on August 5. Drake is expected to continue the rest of his European tour as scheduled, with his next performance set for August 4 in Manchester, followed by shows in Amsterdam, Zurich, and other cities through the summer.
Despite the setback, anticipation remains high for Drake’s return to the stage in Manchester. With new music, a visually immersive tour, and the return of live stadium performances, the Canadian rapper continues to dominate the international music scene—even if travel hiccups momentarily stall the momentum.
