Belfast rap trio Kneecap claim their latest poster was banned from the London Underground for potentially causing offence as they accuse authorities of political censorship
Irish rap group Kneecap have claimed that their latest promotional poster has been blocked from appearing on the London Underground, accusing authorities of censorship and “political interference.” In a statement shared on X, the Belfast trio wrote: “We’ve been banned from advertising on the London Tube.” They claim the decision marks a shift in treatment: “After using the tube to advertise loads of times for gigs, records and our movie, all without issue.”
The ad in question promotes their upcoming Wembley show and features the band’s name alongside a balaclava-style logo reminiscent of those worn by paramilitary groups during the Troubles. The poster reads: “Kneecap. OVO Arena Wembley, London. Thurs 18th September ’25.”
According to the group, the ad was rejected because “it is likely to cause widespread or serious offence to reasonable members of the public on account of the product or service being advertised, the content or design of the advertisement, or by way of implication.”
Responding to that reasoning, Kneecap added: “How petty can political policing and interference get… Speak out against genocide and they’ll use every single angle they can to silence you.”
The group have faced intense scrutiny recently, particularly after member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (aka Mo Chara) was charged with a terrorism offence in May. The charge relates to his alleged display of a Hezbollah flag at a 2024 performance in north London. He is due to appear in court next month.
In a bold response ahead of that court date, Kneecap rolled out billboards across London bearing the message: “More Black, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara” – a reference to the discriminatory signs seen in post-war Britain targeting Irish and Black immigrants.
On 18 June, Ó hAnnaidh and bandmates Naoise Ó Cairealláin and JJ Ó Dochartaigh were greeted by supporters outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
Despite mounting controversy, the band continues to draw major crowds. They sold out Glasgow’s O2 venue in just 80 seconds earlier this week.
However, their set at this weekend’s TRNSMT festival was abruptly pulled after police raised concerns. The band was met with huge support in Glasgow following their cancelled slot on TRNSMT in the city. Fans gathered outside the band’s show and shared their support for the Irish rap trio despite them being axed from festival slots.
The three members of Kneecap arrived at the O2 Academy in Glasgow on Tuesday evening and were greeted by pro-Palestinian demonstrators waving flags. The band from Belfast was recently axed from the line-up of TRNSMT in the city following a row over an investigation by counter-terror police into Liam Og O hAnnaidh.
The singer, who performs as Mo Chara, is accused of terrorism offences related to a Hezbollah flag he allegedly held up on stage, but denies the charge.
Before the show, which sold out in 80 seconds, a number of fans and demonstrators spoke to the PA news agency to share their support with the band. One called Meghan explained how she and her friend Amy had originally planned to go to TRNSMT. However, they decided to go to the Kneecap gig instead.
She claimed it was “disgusting” the band had been dropped from the line-up, saying: “I think people are just scared for them to express proper problems in the world. They just want to shy away from it whereas Kneecap just come out and say it like it is.”
Another fan added: “We’re of the opinion the establishment is so under threat, they’re having to look to ridiculous means to try and silence outspoken voices. We applaud Kneecap.”
Their June Glastonbury performance, which followed Bob Vylan on the West Holts Stage, is also under review. Avon and Somerset Police are now investigating both acts for comments made on stage.
Transport for London has been contacted for comment regarding the advertising decision.
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