Pepsi has withdrawn as main sponsor of the Wireless Festival following backlash over the decision to feature Kanye West as the headline act.The drinks giant has confirmed it will no longer support the festival in north London in July after criticism intensified over the rapper’s past anti-Semitic comments.West, now known as Ye, was recently announced as the headline performer for all three days of the festival, which is traditionally marketed as “Pepsi Presents Wireless”.
Pepsi Wireless Festival The controversy deepens amid political reaction and sponsor’s exit
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the booking as “deeply worrying”, citing West’s past anti-Semitic comments and controversial statements.“Anti-Semitism in any form is abhorrent and must be confronted firmly wherever it appears,” he said, adding that Britain must remain a place where Jewish communities feel safe.Demand for action has also been raised from political parties. Ed Davey urged authorities to block West from entering Britain, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said individuals who promote hate speech should not be given a platform. Reform Britain leader Nigel Farage said he would not attend the event.Along with Pepsi, Diageo has also withdrawn its support. Its brands, including Johnnie Walker and Captain Morgan, were listed as festival partners.A spokesperson for Diageo said the company had conveyed its concerns to organizers and would not sponsor the 2026 edition under the current circumstances.As of the latest update, participant details on the festival’s website appear to have been removed.
Controversy regarding Kanye West
West, 48, has faced frequent criticism for anti-Semitic statements and behavior in recent years. He apologized earlier this year, including in a public message and a newspaper advertisement, saying he regretted his actions and was “deeply mortified”.However, an investigation into his past conduct, including offensive social media posts, controversial merchandise and statements praising Nazi ideology, continues.The rapper has not performed in the UK since 2015, when he attended the Glastonbury Festival.
Festival Under Pressure
BBC News understands that no visa application has yet been submitted for West to enter the UK. Meanwhile, Jewish community groups have urged authorities to reconsider their involvement.A spokesman for London Mayor Sadiq Khan said West’s previous comments were “offensive and wrong” and did not reflect the city’s values, while adding that the booking decision was that of the festival organisers.The event, organized by Festival Republic, is scheduled to run from 10 to 12 July and is described as a showcase of West’s “most iconic records”.
uncertain road ahead
With major sponsors backing out and political pressure increasing, questions remain whether West will ultimately perform.Currently, the focus of the controversy has shifted from music to a broader debate on accountability, the platform, and the responsibilities of cultural programs in a polarized environment.