WIENER NEUSTADT — A verdict is expected in the case of Beran A., a 21-year-old Austrian citizen who pleaded guilty to plotting a terrorist attack on Taylor Swift’s Vienna concert in August 2024. Austrian authorities canceled Swift’s three scheduled performances at Ernst Happel Stadium after thwarting the plot.

Beran A., identified only by his first name and last initial in accordance with Austrian privacy rules, admitted during the opening day of his trial to planning an attack targeting concertgoers outside the stadium using knives or homemade explosives. His defense attorney said he pleaded guilty to the charges related to the Taylor Swift concert plot. He faces charges including terrorist offenses and membership in a terrorist organization, and could receive a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Only Beran A. was charged in connection with the Swift concert plot, though he is being tried alongside another defendant, Arda K., whose full name has also not been released publicly. Austrian court sources indicated that while Beran A. entered a guilty plea related to the concert attack, the trial continues to address all charges and include expert testimony before closing arguments are made.

Tens of thousands of Taylor Swift fans had traveled to Austria to attend the Eras Tour performances before their abrupt cancellation. In the aftermath, many gathered in central Vienna to exchange friendship bracelets and express disappointment over the lost opportunity to see the singer perform.

It was not immediately clear how long the court would need to reach a verdict. Legal proceedings are ongoing, with experts yet to be heard and closing arguments still pending, according to court sources.