Belfast-based rap group Kneecap has stated that Transport for London (TfL) has “banned” the display of one of their posters on the London Underground.
The trio has recently garnered media attention after one member was accused of expressing support for a proscribed organization, a charge he denies.
In a social media statement released Thursday, the group announced: “We’ve been banned from advertising on the London Tube.”
TfL, which reviews advertising submissions “on a case-by-case basis,” determined that the Kneecap poster—featuring their logo of a balaclava, commonly associated with paramilitary groups during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and promoting a September 2025 concert—”would likely cause widespread or serious offence to reasonable members of the public.”
The poster in question displays the logo alongside the text: “Kneecap. OVO Arena Wembley, London. Thurs 18th September ’25.”
Sources at BBC News understand that the rejection pertains specifically to this poster and does not constitute a blanket ban on Kneecap advertising.
Notably, the balaclava-style logo has previously appeared in a smaller format on the TfL network in promotional materials for the band’s 2024 film.
A TfL spokesperson declined to comment further on this inconsistency.
The group responded to the decision with a statement: “How petty can political policing and interference get?
“After using the Tube to advertise loads of times for gigs, records and our movie, all without issue.”
The forthcoming performance marks Kneecap’s first in London since their support slot for Fontaines DC at a sold-out Finsbury Park show on July 5th.
In May, Liam Og O hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara on stage, was charged with a terrorism-related offense for allegedly displaying a flag associated with Hezbollah at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town during a November 2024 performance.
His court date is scheduled for next month.
The group recently performed at Glasgow’s O2 Academy on Tuesday, a show that sold out within 80 seconds.
Kneecap was scheduled to appear at the TRNSMT festival in Glasgow this weekend, but their set was cancelled following concerns raised by law enforcement.
The band has been vocal in its criticism of the conflict in Gaza and performed amidst a sea of Palestinian flags during their set at the Glastonbury Festival in June.
Following punk duo Bob Vylan on the West Holts stage, Kneecap, along with Vylan, is under investigation by Avon and Somerset Police for remarks made during their respective performances.
A TfL spokesperson stated: “All adverts submitted for display on our network are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
“Having given this very careful consideration, this advert was rejected as it was deemed that running it would likely cause widespread or serious offence to reasonable members of the public.”
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