Soda giant Pepsi has dramatically pulled its sponsorship from Wireless Festival after a major backlash over Kanye Westbeing announced as the headline act.
The shock move comes after days of growing criticism about the rapper’s inclusion in the lineup, with many pointing to his past controversial statements and behaviour. Pepsi confirmed the decision in a brief statement, ending a major partnership that has been in place since 2015. The 2026 event had even been branded “Pepsi presents Wireless.”
Kanye West, also known as Ye, is still scheduled to headline all three nights of the festival at Finsbury Park this July, but the booking has sparked outrage from politicians and celebrities alike.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the decision to book the rapper as “deeply concerning,” while London Mayor Sadiq Khan called it “deeply irresponsible.”
Comedian Matt Lucas also publicly questioned why brands were still supporting the festival, referencing Kanye’s past behaviour and controversial content. Since then, calls have been growing louder for the performance to be cancelled entirely, with critics saying allowing him to headline sends the wrong message.
A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said the rapper’s past comments are “offensive and wrong” and do not reflect London’s values, but also clarified that the decision to book him was made by festival organisers, not City Hall.
Despite the mounting pressure, festival organisers have remained silent, and Kanye’s headline performances are still scheduled to go ahead — for now.
Earlier this year, Kanye West issued an apology, admitting he had “lost touch with reality” and expressing remorse for his past comments, but critics say the apology does not go far enough.
The drama has now turned Wireless Festival into one of the most controversial music events of the year, raising big questions about cancel culture, artistic freedom, and the responsibility of sponsors.
