Zayn Malik canceled his scheduled concert in Mexico City on Friday, March 28, due to a severe case of food poisoning.
“I’m heartbroken to say that I won’t be able to perform tonight in Mexico City,” Malik, 32, announced via his Instagram Stories just hours before doors were set to open.
“I’ve been really sick since this morning and, despite trying everything to push through, my body just isn’t allowing it.”
Expressing his disappointment, he added, “I’m so sorry to let you down. The love and energy I always feel from my fans mean the world to me, and it hurts deeply to miss this moment with you. Thank you for your understanding, and please know I’m sending all of my love to each of you.”
Zayn Shares an Update on His Health
Nearly seven hours later, Malik provided another update on his condition.
“Mexico, I love you even though myself and many of my crew got severe food poisoning,” he shared in a follow-up Instagram Story. “It’s no joke — [I’m] still struggling.”
The former One Direction member also reiterated his apologies to fans who had tickets for the show.
“To my fans, I’m so sorry — these shows have made me feel alive, happy, grateful and at home, and that’s all because of you,” he wrote.
“These shows, your energy, your fan projects filled me with so much love and a feeling I can’t even describe. Big love.”
Malik’s Return to Touring
Malik launched his Stairway to the Sky Tour in November 2024, marking his first tour in several years.
“I don’t want to play a character, you know,” he shared during a May 2024 interview on SiriusXM’s The Morning Mashup, discussing his approach to performing. “I want to be me, and it takes longer and takes more self-reflection and it’s a longer process.”
At the time, he elaborated, “So, I think, you know, when people have a deadline and they want to get things out for a business sense, that would make sense, you know, for you to make things that fit different character backdrops or whatever, but for me, I just want it to feel genuine and like it comes from me. It’s always the main intention behind my creation.”
This isn’t the first time Malik has had to cancel a performance. In December 2024, he pulled out of his show at the O2 City Hall Newcastle due to vocal issues.
“I’m so sorry to do this, but my voice just isn’t there at all tonight and without it there’s no show. I’m truly sorry to let you down, especially at short notice,” he shared on social media at the time.
“I held onto hope until the very last moment. I’m hopeful with some rest tonight I’ll be back on stage tomorrow. My deepest apologies Newcastle love you all xx.”
