Ed Sheeran Swaps Private Jets For Eleven-Hour Train

The British singer-songwriter and multi-Grammy Award winner, Ed Sheeran, has left fans Down Under both bewildered and charmed. As part of his expansive 2026 'Loop Tour', the global superstar eschewed the convenience of a private jet or a quick commercial flight, opting instead for a modest eleven-hour rail journey from Sydney to Melbourne.

A Humble Arrival at Southern Cross

While most celebrities of his stature—boasting a net worth estimated at over $700 million (£550 million)—would prioritise speed and seclusion, Sheeran was spotted navigating Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station like any other commuter. Disembarking from the overnight XPT service on Thursday morning, the "Shape of You" singer attempted a low-profile entrance.

Footage circulating on social media shows Sheeran clad in a green hoodie pulled over a cap, pushing a luggage trolley laden with bags, including one featuring the logo of Sydney’s famous Taronga Zoo. Despite his immense wealth, the artist opted for a ticket costing a mere $164 (approximately £85), a choice that has sparked widespread admiration across the Australian continent and beyond.

Sustainability and the "Quiet Life"

This unconventional travel choice is not merely a whim. Sheeran has previously noted that his wife often encourages him to utilise public transport to remain grounded. Furthermore, the move aligns with a growing trend among eco-conscious artists to reduce their carbon footprint during massive global tours.

By choosing the tracks over the clouds, Sheeran avoided the significant emissions associated with short-haul aviation. His journey coincides with a poignant moment in Australian infrastructure history, as the federal government recently announced a high-speed rail project for the East Coast, which aims to slash the current eleven-hour slog to a brisk four-hour trip.

Tour Logistics and Public Reception

The singer’s humility has resonated deeply, even within the academic and expatriate communities. Dr Sajal Roy, a Sydney-based sociologist at the Australian Catholic University, remarked:

"When a global icon like Ed Sheeran chooses a standard train carriage over luxury, it serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness lies in simplicity. His environmental consciousness and 'down-to-earth' persona are truly unparalleled."

Having already enthralled audiences in Perth, Sydney, and Brisbane, Sheeran took to the stage at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium on Thursday night to a deafening roar from thousands of fans. Following two further sold-out shows in Melbourne, the tour is set to reach its grand Australian crescendo on 5 March at the Adelaide Oval.