Rolling Stones Tour 2026, UK, Europe

The Rolling Stones have scrapped plans for a 2026 UK and European stadium tour, according to a source close to the band, ending months of speculation about the legendary rock band’s next big live outing.

Although the tour was never officially announced, it was widely expected following comments earlier this year from touring pianist Chuck Leavell and a band representative, who both suggested the group was preparing to return to the road while simultaneously working on a new studio album.

Fans and industry watchers had been waiting for an official announcement later this year, making the cancellation a disappointment for many who had hoped to see the band perform in Europe again.

The planned tour was expected to coincide with the release of the group’s next album, which would be their second collaboration with producer Andrew Watt. The record is reportedly nearing completion and is expected to be released next year. Watt also produced Hackney Diamonds, the band’s 2023 album, which was widely praised and marked a creative renaissance for the group.

However, the decision to pull out of the tour appears to be centered around guitarist Keith Richards, who turns 82 this week and is said to be unable to commit to the physical demands of a lengthy multi-country tour. According to sources, concerns were raised during internal discussions about the toll such a schedule would take, particularly given the scale and length of the proposed dates.

Richards has previously been open about managing arthritis, which he has described as “benign,” while acknowledging that he has needed to make adjustments to his playing style over the years. An anonymous music critic was quoted as saying: “When they sat down properly to discuss the tour, Keith said he didn’t think he could commit and didn’t want a big stadium tour for more than four months.”

A representative for the band confirmed that tour plans were under consideration, but were ultimately dropped. “The band was looking to tour earlier this year but didn’t make it,” the spokesperson said. “It’s difficult for their fans, but the Stones will return to the stage when they’re good and ready.”

Richards recently appeared in fine form during a short three-song performance at the Soho Sessions in New York City, reassuring fans of his health. However, this performance was a far cry from the intense physical demands of a full-scale stage tour that involved frequent travel, long shows and little recovery time between shows.

The Rolling Stones have been touring regularly since the early 2000s, although their schedules have gradually decreased as the band members have aged. Their most recent major run of concerts was the Hackney Diamonds tour, which included 20 North American dates over three months and was seen as a more measured approach to touring. The band is increasingly opting for shorter, regionally focused tours instead of extensive global treks.

The team has also undergone changes in recent years. Original drummer Charlie Watts passed away in 2021, marking an important moment in the band’s history. He was replaced by Steve Jordan, who has since toured and recorded with the group and been warmly received by fans.

Despite the canceled tour, expectations remain high for the upcoming album. Mick Jagger has previously praised Andrew Watt’s influence on the band, saying: “He has such infectious enthusiasm and a great work ethic.” Richards echoed those sentiments, adding, “Andrew has an infectious vitality about him coupled with an unquenchable enthusiasm.”

While the absence of a tour in 2026 will disappoint fans in the UK and Europe, the band’s continued commitment to recording new music suggests that the Rolling Stones are not yet ready to end their career. For now, the focus is on the upcoming album and the possibility of more selective live shows in the future.