Police drop Glastonbury investigation into Kneecap’s performance

Irish rap trio Kneecap have confirmed police have dropped the investigation into their Glastonbury Festival performance last month.

Avon and Somerset Police launched an official probe into their Worthy Farm set, as well as that of Bob Vylan, whose performance saw singer Bobby Vylan, whose real name is reportedly Pascal Robinson-Foster, 34, lead crowds in chants of ‘Death, death to the IDF (Israel Defence Forces)’.

Meanwhile, Kneecap—comprising Liam O’Hanna, Naoise O Caireallain, and JJ O Dochartaigh—led the thousands-strong West Holts Stage audience in ‘Free Palestine’ chants directly after in their set.

It was previously announced that footage was being reviewed by an appointed senior detective to investigate whether comments made by either act amounted to a criminal offence.

Now, Kneecap have shared an update, posting a copy of the email they received from police on Instagram.

It read: ‘I am Senior Investigating Officer for Avon and Somerset Police’s investigation into Kneecap’s performance at the Glastonbury Festival on 28th June 2025. Following a review of the evidence, I have determined there will be no further action.’

Shortly after, Avon and Somerset Police confirmed to Metro that no further legal action would be taken. Their statement read: ‘An investigation has been carried out into comments about a forthcoming court case made during Kneecap’s performance at Glastonbury Festival on Saturday, 28 June. 

‘Detectives sought advice from the Crown Prosecution Service during their enquiries and after that advice, we have made the decision to take no further action on the grounds there is insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction for any offence.

‘Kneecap was informed of that decision earlier today (Friday, 18 July).’

Police confirmed that ‘enquiries continue to be carried out in relation to separate comments made on stage during Bob Vylan’s performance.’

Meanwhile, Kneecap added in their social media caption: ‘One element of the political policing intimidation attempt is over.

‘We played a historic set at Glastonbury. Whole area closed an hour before due to crowds. A celebration of love and solidarity. A sea of good people at the world’s most famous festival.

‘Shortly afterwards we learn of an active police investigation. An investigation that followed after the Prime Minister himself said it “was not appropriate” we played Glastonbury.

‘Walk off stage to the rapturous sounds of good people and into the creaking scheming sounds of the establishment.

‘This “investigation” was reported across the world’s media often with wildly misleading headlines.

‘Every single person who saw our set knew no law was broken, not even close….yet the police saw fit to publicly announce they were opening an investigation.’

They went on to claim the investigation was ‘political’ and ‘targeted’.

‘After the media damage is inflicted and seen by millions of eyes – you receive a private email to say there’s no evidence and no action – that is seen by two people only,’ they added.

‘There is no public apology, they don’t send this to media or post it on police accounts.’

Kneecap vowed to continue to ‘fight’ and to ‘win’.

As mentioned in their statement, PM Sir Keir previously claimed that he didn’t believe it would be ‘appropriate’ for Kneecap to perform at Glasto, O’Hanna, who performs as Mo Chara, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court earlier last month, charged with a terror offence.

The 27-year-old, accused of displaying a flag representing Hezbollah, a proscribed organisation, at a gig last November, denied the charges. He will return to court this month.

In response to the Labour leader’s calls for a ban at the time, Kneecap shared a screenshot from his interview, writing: ‘You know what’s “not appropriate” Keir?! Arming a f***ing genocide… [sic]’.

The BBC also announced ahead of time that Kneecap’s set would not be broadcast live, with a spokesperson saying: ‘As the broadcast partner, the BBC is bringing audiences extensive music coverage from Glastonbury, with artists booked by the festival organisers.

‘Whilst the BBC doesn’t ban artists, our plans ensure that our programming meets our editorial guidelines.

‘We don’t always livestream every act from the main stages and look to make an on-demand version of Kneecap’s performance available on our digital platforms, alongside more than 90 other sets.’

As a result, Kneecap’s performance was viewed by thousands via Helen Wilson in the crowd, who went live on TikTok and quickly went viral for her actions, many declaring her a ‘legend,’ and the band themselves reaching out to her.

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