Pepsi and Diageo have withdrawn their sponsorship of the Wireless festival after criticism over its decision to book Kanye West as headliner.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 is 'abhorrent' and must be confronted. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called on the government to ban West from entering the UK, urging tougher action against antisemitism.
West has not yet applied to enter Britain and could be blocked under immigration rules if his presence is deemed not conducive to the public good. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has the authority to personally direct his exclusion.
The festival, scheduled for July in London's Finsbury Park, now faces serious doubts about its future. Diageo confirmed it will not sponsor the 2026 event, while Pepsi withdrew its sponsorship for this year.
Jewish groups, including the Jewish Leadership Council and the Board of Deputies of British Jews, condemned the booking. West apologised in January for his remarks, attributing them to a manic episode linked to bipolar disorder.
