London, UK Promoter Festival Republic has cancelled this year’s Wireless Festival after rapper Kanye West, who was scheduled to headline the event in July, was denied entry into the United Kingdom.
In a statement, the organisers said:
"The Home Office has withdrawn Ye's ETA, denying him entry into the United Kingdom.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.
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The statement added that prior to booking Kanye West, multiple stakeholders had been consulted and no concerns were flagged at the time.
Festival Republic acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation, saying:
"Antisemitism in all its forms is abhorrent, and we recognise the real and personal impact these issues have had.
As Ye said today, he acknowledges that words alone are not enough, and in spite of this still hopes to be given the opportunity to begin a conversation with the Jewish community in the UK.
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Presale tickets for the festival had gone on sale earlier today, leaving fans disappointed by the sudden cancellation.
This decision follows growing concerns over Kanye West’s past statements and actions, including selling swastika-themed merchandise and releasing controversial music, which have drawn widespread criticism from the public and politicians alike.
Fans who purchased tickets will receive full refunds, according to Festival Republic.
