Coldplay fans are feeling uneasy ahead of the band’s four shows at Toronto’s new open-air Rogers Stadium from July 7 to 12, after major issues during the venue’s first concert on June 29.
At that show, fans faced up to two-hour delays exiting the stadium, overwhelmed TTC and GO Transit service, and limited rideshare availability. Accessibility was another issue, with missing shuttles and long walks for people with mobility needs.
Water refill stations were scarce and lines were long, made worse by the venue’s lack of shade during hot weather. Some seats in upper sections reportedly swayed, raising safety concerns—though Live Nation said the movement is normal. Small Earth Water bottles were being sold by vendors for a huge markup up at $7 each. Many had to purchase as initial water lines were just way too long on a hot summer’s day.
The stadium’s remote North York location also frustrated attendees, with few nearby hotels or restaurants. Many questioned why Coldplay wasn’t booked at downtown’s unused Rogers Centre. Fans online slammed the event’s disorganization, including poor signage and long washroom lines, according to CBC News.
In response, Live Nation says changes have been made. TTC and GO Transit are adding service, and more staff, signage, lighting, and water stations—now 31—will be in place.
Wheel-Trans service and pre-booked accessible parking will be available. Fans are advised to bring empty plastic bottles (no metal or glass). Despite some Rogers network upgrades to the tune of $5 million, some concertgoers said cell reception was mixed.
“Cell service was also extremely spotty,” said one Reddit user who attended the first concert at Rogers Stadium. “I was near the top of the bowl and could text, but my friend who was on the floor had no service during the show. When everyone was leaving, it became basically impossible to text. Make sure to communicate meeting spots and plans with your group beforehand if necessary! If you plan on bringing a lightstick that uses wifi or an app to connect to the show, you will need mobile data or a hotspot to make it work.”
Others also had concerns about the swaying of the seats and bleachers. “Oh it was terrifying. We were in row 49 and could feel it the whole time. I had to come down halfway through the first song and chill out. One of the Stray Kids members said to the crowd “how do we feel about jumping??” and I’m like nooooooo,” said one concert goer on Reddit.
Live Nation insists the venue is safe and says it’s working with the city and transit agencies to improve the experience. The 50,000-seat stadium, built on the former Downsview Airport site, is temporary and will host concerts through 2030. Upcoming acts include Oasis, Blackpink, and Hozier.
Rogers customers can skip the main line with exclusive entry via Rogers Beyond the Seat. Just show your device or the MyRogers app at the gate for faster access.
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There is also some backlash on RFD where rumours suggest it has been once again hacked, but RFD is remaining silent.