French authorities are seeking to block US rapper Kanye West from performing in the southern city of Marseille in June, following renewed controversy over his antisemitic remarks.
France’s Interior Minister Laurent Nunez is reportedly “highly determined” to prevent the June 11 concert at the Stade Vélodrome and is exploring all legal avenues to do so, according to a source close to the ministry.
The move comes amid mounting criticism of West, who has faced widespread condemnation across Europe for antisemitic statements and controversial public comments, including past praise of Adolf Hitler.
The United Kingdom has already barred the rapper, also known as Ye, from entering the country, leading to the cancellation of a festival appearance he was scheduled to headline. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously described booking West as “deeply concerning.”
In contrast, Dutch officials have said there are currently no plans to restrict his entry, highlighting differing approaches across Europe.
French officials said Minister Nunez had discussed the potential concert ban with the regional prefect and the mayor of Marseille during a recent visit to the city.
Marseille Mayor Benoît Payan has also publicly opposed West’s planned performance, stating that the city should not become a platform for hate speech.
“I refuse to allow Marseille to be a showcase for those who promote hatred,” Payan said earlier.
West has previously been banned from major streaming platforms after releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler” in May 2025 and promoting controversial merchandise. He later claimed regret for his actions, attributing some behaviour to bipolar disorder.
The latest move by French authorities reflects growing European scrutiny of public figures accused of promoting extremist or antisemitic content, particularly in high-profile entertainment events.
