Kanye West denied stadium shows by Premier League club amid controversy

April 7, 2026 Oliver Obel

Kanye West’s planned return to the UK has run into resistance, with a proposed series of stadium shows reportedly turned down before the rapper secured a major festival slot in London.

The 48-year-old artist is set to headline Wireless Festival in July, but his involvement has already sparked political criticism and commercial fallout tied to his previous antisemitic comments.

Tottenham approach declined

British media reports, including The Sun on Sunday, say West’s team initially sought to stage multiple performances at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as part of a wider return to large-scale live shows.

However, the proposal did not progress. A source told the outlet that the club rejected the idea, citing concerns linked to its longstanding association with the Jewish community.

“There was no way they would allow Kanye to perform at the club given its history with the Jewish community,” the source said.

Following that decision, West’s representatives turned their focus to Wireless Festival in north London, where he was later confirmed as a headliner.

Political and public reaction

The booking has drawn scrutiny from senior UK officials. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was “deeply concerned” about the decision to include West in the festival lineup.

“Antisemitism in any form is abhorrent and must be confronted firmly wherever it appears,” Starmer said.

He added: “Everyone has a responsibility to ensure Britain is a place where Jewish people feel safe.”

The criticism reflects broader concern in the UK over West’s past behavior, which has included antisemitic statements and controversial imagery associated with his music and merchandise.

Sponsor pulls out

The fallout has extended beyond politics. Pepsi confirmed it would withdraw its sponsorship of Wireless Festival following the announcement of West as a headliner.

In a statement, a company spokesperson said: “Following the mounting backlash surrounding the announcement and Sir Keir Starmer speaking out, Pepsi's position as festival sponsor became untenable.”

They added: “Festivals are about bringing people together; the only decision was to withdraw with Kanye West topping the bill.”

The developments highlight the wider impact of the controversy, with both public institutions and corporate partners responding to pressure ahead of the summer event.

Sources: The Sun on Sunday, UK government statements, Pepsi