Rock en Seine, one of France’s most prestigious music festivals, is set to return from August 20–24, 2025, at the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud. Known for its eclectic lineup and vibrant atmosphere, the festival has long been a highlight of Europe’s summer music calendar. However, this year’s edition has sparked controversy due to the inclusion of Northern Irish rap trio Kneecap, leading to a significant financial and political backlash.
A Stellar Lineup Under Fire
The 2025 edition of Rock en Seine boasts an impressive roster of international artists, including headliners Chappell Roan, A$AP Rocky, Fontaines D.C., and Queens of the Stone Age. Additional acts such as Aurora, Stereophonics, Jamie xx, and Sharon Van Etten further enrich the program, promising a diverse musical experience across five stages. Despite the star-studded lineup, the decision to feature Kneecap has overshadowed much of the anticipation.
Kneecap, known for their provocative lyrics and outspoken support for the Palestinian cause, has faced scrutiny in recent months. The group’s scheduled performance on Sunday, August 24, has drawn sharp criticism from local authorities and political figures. The controversy escalated when the town council of Saint-Cloud withdrew a €40,000 subsidy, citing concerns over the band’s perceived political affiliations.
Political Pressure and Funding Cuts
The funding cut marks the first time in Rock en Seine’s 22-year history that it has faced such a withdrawal of support. Éric Berdoati, mayor of Saint-Cloud, justified the decision by stating, “We subsidise cultural initiatives, not political ones.” The move aligns with broader criticism from high-profile figures like Valérie Pécresse, President of the Île-de-France region, who previously called for Kneecap’s removal from French music festivals.
The controversy stems from legal proceedings against Kneecap member Mo Chara, who appeared in court earlier this year on charges of displaying a flag associated with Hezbollah during a 2024 London concert. While the case remains unresolved, the incident has fueled debates about artistic freedom versus political responsibility.
Defending Artistic Integrity
Despite the backlash, Rock en Seine organizers have stood firmly behind their decision to include Kneecap. Festival director Mathieu Ducos emphasized that the trio was booked last autumn before becoming embroiled in controversy. “When we programmed them, they weren’t the talk of the town, except for good reasons,” he stated. “I hope that the history we’ve built doesn’t end with this dispute.”
Supporters of Kneecap argue that the backlash reflects a broader trend of censorship targeting politically outspoken artists. Prominent musicians, including Brian Eno, Fontaines D.C., and Pulp, signed an open letter condemning what they described as a “concerted attempt to censor and ultimately deplatform” the group. They urged respect for artistic freedom and opposition to “political repression of creative expression.”
Impact on the Festival
While the €40,000 loss represents only a fraction of Rock en Seine’s €17 million budget, the controversy threatens to tarnish the festival’s reputation. Organizers remain optimistic, highlighting the event’s enduring appeal and diverse programming. Tickets are available for purchase, with prices starting at €89 for single-day passes and €329 for five-day packages.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Parc de Saint-Cloud, Rock en Seine continues to attract over 180,000 attendees annually. This year’s anniversary edition promises a blend of nostalgia and innovation, showcasing both legendary performers and emerging talents. Highlights include Chappell Roan’s sole French performance, Justice’s electrifying set, and the psychedelic sounds of Khruangbin.
Broader Implications
The Kneecap controversy underscores the challenges faced by festivals navigating the intersection of art and politics. As global tensions influence cultural spaces, debates over censorship and freedom of expression grow increasingly complex. For Rock en Seine, maintaining its commitment to diversity and inclusivity while addressing community concerns will be crucial in ensuring its continued success.
As the festival approaches, all eyes remain on Rock en Seine and its handling of this contentious issue. Will Kneecap take the stage as planned, or will mounting pressure force a last-minute change? One thing is certain: the outcome will resonate far beyond the gates of Saint-Cloud, shaping conversations about art, activism, and accountability in the modern era.
“We subsidise cultural initiatives, not political ones,” says Saint-Cloud mayor.