Uzbek passenger rejects €120,000 offer from Wizz Air after alleged discrimination case gains global attention

An Uzbek citizen who accused Wizz Air of discrimination has rejected a €120,000 compensation offer from the airline, insisting that “money is not above dignity.” The case has recently drawn international attention after Canadian musician Dave Carroll, known for his viral protest song “United Breaks Guitars”, collaborated with the passenger on a music video highlighting the incident.

Two years ago, Suhrob Ubaydullaev purchased a ticket from Rome to Samarkand via Abu Dhabi but was denied boarding without explanation. He detailed the experience in an interview with Kun.uz, after which the story gained traction in international media circles.

Dave Carroll, whose 2009 song shamed United Airlines for damaging his guitar, reviewed the case with his legal team and, convinced by the findings, decided to support Ubaydullaev. A joint music video dedicated to the incident was later filmed with the participation of more than 100 people. Carroll even shot part of the video in a stadium as a symbolic nod to Uzbekistan’s national football team, which recently qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Before Ubaydullaev travelled to Canada for the project, he contacted British lawyers regarding his dispute with Wizz Air. Upon learning this, the airline reached out and offered €120,000 in exchange for dropping the complaint and remaining silent about the case. Ubaydullaev refused.

“They called me while I was in London,” he said. “They offered €120,000, but on the condition that I stay quiet and that they wouldn’t apologize. I consulted my mentors and rejected it.”

The music video has since been viewed more than 110,000 times. Ubaydullaev claims Wizz Air’s share price has been declining since its release, though the direct correlation is unclear. Shortly after the song’s debut – titled “Don’t fly Wizzness Class,” a play on the airline’s name implying service below even economy-level standards – Wizz Air announced plans to introduce business-class seating on its aircraft. According to Ubaydullaev, Carroll suggested the timing “might not be a coincidence.”

Ubaydullaev and Carroll are now preparing a joint response to any further actions from the airline and plan to coordinate decisions regarding potential compensation.

On the day the video was published, Carroll addressed the people of Uzbekistan, urging them to support the project.

“My new friend Suhrob and I have released our music video,” he said. “It encourages airlines to treat passengers with respect. I knew little about Uzbekistan before, but thanks to this case, I’ve learned a lot. I recently heard your national team has qualified for the 2026 World Cup, many of whose matches will be held here in Canada. I look forward to welcoming your team and fans. Please don’t ignore this video – it was made to ensure passengers receive the respect they deserve.”