Pepsi and Diageo have withdrawn their sponsorship of the Wireless music festival following criticism over its decision to book Kanye West as headliner. The rapper, also known as Ye, has faced widespread condemnation for antisemitic remarks and a song titled 'Heil Hitler'.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the booking as 'deeply concerning', stating that 'antisemitism in any form is abhorrent'. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called on the government to ban West from entering the UK, saying 'we need to get tougher on antisemitism'.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood could personally direct that West be excluded from the country under UK immigration rules that allow denial of entry based on character or conduct deemed a threat to society. The musician is understood not to have applied for a visa yet.
Pepsi said in a statement: 'Pepsi has decided to withdraw its sponsorship of Wireless festival.' Diageo, owner of Johnnie Walker and Captain Morgan, confirmed it will not sponsor the 2026 event, having informed organisers of its concerns.
The Jewish Leadership Council and Board of Deputies of British Jews have also condemned the booking. West apologised in January for his remarks, attributing them to a manic episode caused by bipolar disorder.
