The “Work” hit-maker was apparently concerned about the Zika virus that hasΒ recentlyΒ seen a riseΒ in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Lollapalooza was all set to host their inaugural Colombian edition but has now officially been cancelled for the time being. According to reports, Rihanna was supposed to be the surprise headliner but safety concerns related to the Zika virus led to her cancellation. This left organizers in a spot as they wouldn’t be able toΒ find another headliner by September 17, the scheduled date.Β Though Lollapalooza never actually confirmed Rihanna as the headliner,Β speculation has been rife since quite some time that she would fill the “?????” on the poster alongside acts like Lana Del Rey, Disclosure, Wiz Khalifa, The Chainsmokers and Nicky Romero among others.
According to a statement in Spanish on the festival website,Β “The organizers wish to express their deep appreciation to all the fans who supposed the festival since day one, as well as the sponsors and the media partners. We hope to return in the future to realize this first edition of Lollapalooza in the country.”Β Organizers have also promisedΒ full refunds to all ticket holders. No clarification as yet has been provided as to how real the threat was or Rihanna’s reaction to the cancellation.