By Our Correspondent
National News – Major corporate sponsors have withdrawn their support from a major London music festival headlined by Kanye West, sparking fresh controversy ahead of the rapper’s scheduled performances in the United Kingdom.
The decision comes after growing criticism over the American artist’s past antisemitic remarks and controversial public statements.
Drinks giant Pepsi and global beverage company Diageo announced on Sunday that they would no longer sponsor the 2026 Wireless Festival in London.
The festival, organised by Live Nation, is scheduled for July and includes three headline performances by West, also known as Ye.
A spokesperson for Pepsi confirmed the company had decided to withdraw its sponsorship but did not publicly state the exact reason.
Diageo also confirmed its exit from the event, noting that it had communicated its concerns to the festival organisers before deciding not to participate.
The controversy intensified after Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, expressed concern over West’s scheduled appearance.
Speaking to a British newspaper, Starmer said it was “deeply concerning” that the rapper had been booked for such a high-profile festival despite previous remarks widely criticised as antisemitic.
The prime minister emphasised that antisemitism in any form must be firmly challenged and condemned.
Campaigners from the Campaign Against Antisemitism also urged the UK government to consider barring West from entering the country, arguing that his presence could undermine public safety and social harmony.
Further criticism came from Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, as well as several Jewish advocacy groups that questioned the decision to allow the rapper to headline the event.
The debate comes as West prepares for a broader European comeback tour.
In Marseille, France, local authorities have already expressed opposition to a planned June concert.
West previously apologised for his antisemitic comments, attributing some of his behaviour to struggles with bipolar disorder.
However, controversy resurfaced in 2025 after he released a song referencing Nazi imagery, which major music streaming platforms quickly banned.
Despite the backlash, festival organisers have yet to issue an official response on whether the performances will proceed as scheduled.
