The UK government has blocked rapper Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, from entering the country — forcing organisers to cancel Wireless Festival 2026 entirely.
The Home Office denied Ye’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) after he applied on Monday, saying his presence would “not be conducive to the public good.” The decision came after mounting pressure over his history of antisemitic remarks and use of Nazi imagery.
Ye had been booked as the sole headliner for all three nights of Wireless Festival at Finsbury Park, London, running July 10–12. The announcement triggered immediate backlash, with major sponsors including Pepsi, Diageo, Rockstar Energy, and PayPal all pulling their support.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and several opposition politicians had publicly condemned the booking, with some calling for an outright ban.
Festival Republic confirmed the news in a brief statement: “The Home Office has withdrawn YE’s ETA, denying him entry into the United Kingdom. As a result, Wireless Festival is cancelled and refunds will be issued to all ticket-holders.”
Reports suggest Ye had offered to meet members of the UK Jewish community to “show unity, peace and love,” but the government’s decision was not reversed.
Ticket holders are expected to receive automatic refunds. No rescheduled dates or replacement lineup have been announced.
