How U2 ticket u-turn put diplomats in ‘embarrassing situation’
Why a U2 tour ticket mix-up left Irish diplomats embarrassed
- U2's management offered to include “key people” on the guest list for their 1987 Joshua Tree tour in the United States.
- Irish officials initially believed they would receive between 50 and 60 tickets per concert for diplomats and other notables.
- This understanding stemmed from a February 1987 meeting with U2 manager Paul McGuinness, discussing mutual cooperation for Ireland's image.
- Weeks later, the band limited the allocation to just 10 tickets per night, leading to an “embarrassing situation” for Irish diplomats who had already approached potential guests.
- Newly released Government files also reveal U2 was considered for a free concert at the Eiffel Tower's centenary, but did not perform.