Pepsi and Diageo withdraw sponsorship of London festival over Kanye West’s headlining

WorldEntertainment
6 Apr 2026 • 4:39 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Pepsi and Diageo both have withdrawn their sponsorship of London's Wireless Festival following widespread criticism regarding Kanye West's scheduled headline performances.
  • The decisions came after significant backlash from political figures, including Keir Starmer and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, as well as Jewish leaders and comedian Matt Lucas.
  • Critics highlighted West's history of antisemitic remarks and actions, such as releasing a song titled 'Heil Hitler' and selling merchandise featuring swastikas.
  • West recently issued an apology for his past antisemitism, attributing his outbursts to a brain injury and bipolar disorder, though this was met with scepticism.
  • Wireless Festival organisers have yet to comment on the controversy surrounding West's appearance, which is scheduled for three nights in July.

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