April 06, (THEWILL) — Pepsi has pulled out as the main sponsor of London’s Wireless Festival following the announcement that Kanye West, now known as Ye, will headline all three days in July 2026.
The rapper has faced widespread criticism for antisemitic comments in recent years. In January, he apologized in a full-page Wall Street Journal ad, saying he is “not a Nazi or an antisemite” and attributing his past behavior to bipolar disorder.
UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, called the booking “deeply concerning” and said West’s previous antisemitic remarks and celebration of Nazism are “abhorrent.”
Diageo, whose brands Johnnie Walker and Captain Morgan were also festival partners, confirmed it would “not sponsor the 2026 Wireless festival as it stands.”
Political leaders have spoken out. Liberal Democrat Sir Ed Davey urged the government to block West from entering the UK, calling his appearance “extremely serious.” Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said it is important “not [to] platform people who make antisemitic statements or who put out anything that will incite violence and hatred towards Jews.”
West has not performed in the UK since headlining Glastonbury in 2015. Three tracks from his new album, Bully, are in the UK top 100 singles chart.
A spokesperson for London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan said: “The past comments and actions of this artist are offensive and wrong, and are simply not reflective of London’s values.”
Festival organisers, Festival Republic, and West’s representatives have not commented on the latest developments.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
