Authorities in France are moving to block Kanye West, also known as Ye, from performing at Marseille’s Velodrome stadium on June 11 amid strong backlash over his history of antisemitic remarks.
Mayor’s Strong Opposition
Marseille’s socialist mayor, Benoît Payan, has declared the rapper unwelcome in the city. In a social media post, Payan stated: “I refuse to let Marseille be a showcase for those who promote hatred and unabashed Nazism.”
Preceding UK Entry Denial
The French push follows West’s recent barring from the United Kingdom. He had sought to headline the Wireless Festival in July but was denied an electronic travel authorization. Officials determined his presence would not be “conducive to the public good.”
Festival organizers promptly canceled the three-day event and issued refunds to ticket holders.
UK Prime Minister’s Response
Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the situation on social media, saying: “Kanye West should never have been invited to headline Wireless. This government stands firmly with the Jewish community, and we will not stop in our fight to confront and defeat the poison of antisemitism. We will always take the action necessary to protect the public and uphold our values.”
