The Rolling Stones Cancel 2026 UK and Europe Stadium Tour Over Keith Richards’ Commitment Concerns
The Rolling Stones have officially called off plans for a 2026 stadium tour across the UK and Europe, citing Keith Richards’ inability to commit to the demanding tour schedule. The news was first reported by The Sun and later confirmed by Variety and NME.
Keith Richards, who turns 82 this week, previously addressed his health and arthritis in a 2023 interview with the BBC, explaining that the condition has influenced how he plays guitar.
“I don’t have any pain—it’s a benign version,” Richards said. “When I realize I can’t quite do something anymore, the guitar shows me another way. One finger moves slightly, and suddenly a whole new door opens.”
Despite these challenges, The Rolling Stones successfully completed a 20-date stadium tour in 2024 in support of their Grammy-winning comeback album, Hackney Diamonds.
According to The Sun, Richards ultimately chose not to commit to another major stadium tour in 2026, leading to the cancellation of the band’s UK and European tour plans.
While touring has been shelved, the Rolling Stones are still moving forward with new music. Their second album with producer Andrew Watt is expected to be released in 2026. In an interview with Rolling Stone published last September, Watt confirmed he was producing the project.
Later that month, guitarist Ronnie Wood stated that the album was “done” and expressed hope that the band would return to touring, adding that he was still awaiting confirmation regarding future tour plans.