Behind the scenes of the Justin Timberlake concert... Police denied
American singer Justin Timberlake took the stage at ITU Stadium last night as part of his 2025 world tour.
Timberlake, who opened with "Mirrors," apologized for being late for the concert, which was scheduled to start at 9:00 PM:
"We learned that many people had to wait a long time at the doors. We wanted everyone to be able to watch the entire show."
Addressing the crowd, "Türkiye, you all look amazing," the famous star sang her hit songs one after another.
The concert, which drew 30,000 attendees and had ticket prices ranging from 3,500 to 22,000 lira, was plagued by disruptions and long queues at the door. Music fans were forced to wait for long periods in the scorching heat, leading to tensions. Music fans expressed their displeasure on social media.
Halfway through the concert, there were still audience members unable to enter the venue. Restrooms, parking, and food and beverage areas were also inadequate.
The concert organizers explained that the disruptions were due to security measures. The statement read, "World-renowned artist Justin Timberlake's Istanbul concert was successfully held with the participation of thousands of music lovers. This special night went through an extremely sensitive period, not only in terms of music but also in terms of public safety. Numerous groups issued terrorist attack declarations before the Justin Timberlake concert. As a result of the successful and dedicated efforts of the Istanbul Police Department, a potential terrorist threat was neutralized, and the concert area was protected with the highest security measures. Thanks to the 1,000 riot police officers, thousands of plainclothes police officers, and Counter-Terrorism teams on duty at the venue, no untoward incidents occurred throughout the night. The crowds and occasional delays at the entrance to the event were entirely a result of these preventive and protective measures. We thank all participants for their patience and understanding during this process."
However, according to Oda TV, citing police sources, the company's terrorism claims are false. Police warned the company that the 14 turnstiles at the concert entrance would be insufficient, but the company dismissed the warnings.
Police sources also stated that routine precautions were taken as at every concert, that 500 riot police were on duty, not 1,000 as the company claimed, and that there was no terrorist threat.
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