The Rolling Stones rule out a European tour in 2026: what is known about the band’s decision
Legendary British rock band The Rolling Stones are not planning to embark on a European tour in 2026. This has been reported by several leading international music publications citing sources close to the band. The plans reportedly involved concerts in the United Kingdom and continental Europe and were discussed internally as well as with major concert promoters, but were never officially announced.
According to available information, the key factor behind abandoning the large-scale tour was concern over the physical demands and long-term commitments associated with stadium shows. In particular, sources indicate that guitarist and co-founder Keith Richards, who will turn 82 in December 2025, was not prepared to commit to a multi-month tour with an intensive schedule. No official statements regarding health issues among the band members have been made.
It is important to note that a European tour by The Rolling Stones in 2026 was never officially announced, meaning this decision concerns the abandonment of preliminary plans rather than the cancellation of confirmed concerts. Representatives of the band have confirmed that the group is not planning to tour in the near future, while also emphasizing that a return to the stage at a later date remains possible.
The band’s most recent major live project was the tour in support of the album “Hackney Diamonds”, which took place in North America in 2024. The record marked the group’s first album of original material in nearly two decades and received strong reviews from critics and fans alike. The tour attracted hundreds of thousands of spectators and demonstrated that the band remains one of the most in-demand rock acts worldwide.
Despite ruling out European shows, The Rolling Stones continue to work actively in the studio. According to music industry reports, the band has nearly completed recording new material with producer Andrew Watt, who also worked on their previous release. No official release date has been announced, though a 2026 release has not been ruled out.
With a career spanning more than 60 years, The Rolling Stones have repeatedly adjusted their approach to touring, particularly in recent years. The age of the band members — Mick Jagger and Keith Richards are both in their 80s, while Ronnie Wood is in his late 70s — has naturally influenced decisions regarding long, physically demanding tours. In recent years, the band has increasingly favored limited concert runs or studio projects over extensive world tours.
As a result, the decision not to pursue a European tour in 2026 appears to be a measured and pragmatic move that reflects the band’s current circumstances. At the same time, the absence of a tour does not signal the end of their career — The Rolling Stones remain active and continue to consider future projects.
