Pepsi has withdrawn its sponsorship of London's Wireless Festival after widespread backlash over the decision to book Kanye West as this year's headliner.
The festival, which will be held in Finsbury Park this July, announced that West—who now goes by Ye—would headline all three nights. The booking was described as a "three-night journey" through his most iconic records, but it quickly drew condemnation from political leaders and advocacy groups.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed deep concern, citing West's history of anti-Semitic remarks and celebration of Nazism. London Mayor Sadiq Khan also criticized the decision, stating that West's past comments do not align with London's values. The Jewish Leadership Council and the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism joined in opposing the booking.
In response, Pepsi, the festival's primary sponsor since 2015, has severed its partnership. A company spokesperson confirmed the withdrawal, marking a significant shift for the event previously branded as 'Pepsi MAX presents Wireless'.
West's controversial history includes a series of anti-Semitic comments in 2022 that led to social media suspensions and severed ties with major brands like Adidas and Balenciaga. Despite a public apology in 2023, which he later blamed on alcohol, West retracted that apology in 2025, declaring himself "a Nazi" before recanting and then promoting swastika apparel online.
Recent efforts at reconciliation have included meetings with a rabbi and a full-page apology in the Wall Street Journal. However, the ongoing controversy has now cost the festival a key corporate backer, as Pepsi steps away amid the mounting criticism.