British indie rock band Sports Team experienced a shocking start to their US tour when they were robbed at gunpoint in Vallejo, California.
The six-member group, known for their high-energy performances and Mercury Prize-nominated debut album Deep Down Happy, faced the incident just 10 minutes into their tour. The band had stopped at a gas station for coffee when their van was targeted by thieves.
While the band members were inside a Starbucks, masked assailants broke into their tour van. Cameras, laptops, in-ear monitors, and personal items were stolen, though their instruments remained safe, thanks to a fortified van compartment. Unfortunately, three band members lost their passports in the incident.
Despite the robbery, the band quickly decided to continue with their scheduled performance in Sacramento later that evening.
In a social media post, the group expressed disbelief over the situation, remarking on how normalized such incidents seemed to locals.
Lead guitarist Henry Young described the band as “shaken but determined” to perform, noting the overwhelming support from fans and locals.
Young, whose passport was recovered nearby, reflected on the surreal start to their tour but remained optimistic about upcoming shows.
Sports Team’s ability to persevere through adversity is not new. In 2020, Young shared an anecdote about a similar incident in London, where their van was broken into following a major performance. Despite setbacks, the band has built a reputation for resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to their music.
The band, formed during their university years, has made a significant impact on the UK music scene.
Their two top-10 albums and a Mercury Prize nomination underscore their growing influence. Sports Team’s distinctive style and dedication to live performances continue to earn them fans worldwide.
With their US tour now underway, Sports Team remains focused on connecting with their American audience.
Their Sacramento gig marked a determined step forward, proving that even in the face of adversity, the show must go on..
