The Rolling Stones have reportedly abandoned plans for a UK and European stadium tour in 2026, according to new reports, after guitarist Keith Richards was unable to commit to the demanding schedule such a tour would require.
As first reported by NME, discussions had taken place about extending the band’s recent live activity into Europe following the success of their 2024 North American tour, but those plans have now been shelved. Sources close to the band claim the decision was made after it became clear that a lengthy stadium run across multiple countries would place significant strain on the group, whose core members are now all in their late 70s and early 80s.
Keith Richards’ Availability Central to Decision
According to industry insiders cited in the report, Richards — who turns 82 later this year — was unable to fully commit to a tour schedule that could have lasted several months. Stadium tours typically involve extensive travel, rehearsals, and consecutive performances, and it is understood that Richards expressed reservations about undertaking such a demanding run in 2026.
Rather than proceed without full agreement from all members, the band collectively opted to drop the plans. Mick Jagger and Ronnie Wood were reportedly supportive of the decision, with the priority being the band’s long-term health and ability to perform at the standard fans expect.
No official announcement or tour dates had been made prior to the reports, and representatives for the band have not confirmed that a European tour was ever formally booked.
Momentum Followed Successful 2024 Tour
The proposed European and UK dates were believed to be a continuation of the Rolling Stones’ “Hackney Diamonds” era, which saw the band return to touring in 2024 with a widely praised run of stadium shows across North America.
That tour followed the release of Hackney Diamonds in 2023, the band’s first album of original material since 2005. The album debuted strongly, earned positive critical reviews, and introduced the Stones to a new generation of listeners while reaffirming their relevance more than six decades into their career.
Given the strong ticket sales and reviews from the North American dates, expectations had grown among fans and promoters that Europe would be next. The UK, in particular, had been tipped as a likely destination, with the Stones historically maintaining a strong connection to home audiences.
A Pattern of Shorter, Selective Touring
The reported cancellation reflects a broader shift in how the Rolling Stones approach touring in recent years. While the band has remained active on the road well into their later decades, their tours have become more selective, with fewer dates and longer rest periods between shows.
Since the death of drummer Charlie Watts in 2021, the Stones have been especially careful about how and when they perform. Steve Jordan has since filled the drummer’s role on tour, but the band has continued to emphasize sustainability over scale.
Industry observers note that the demands of a full European stadium tour often involving back-to-back shows and frequent international travel are considerably greater than shorter regional runs.
No Indication of Retirement
Despite the shelving of 2026 plans, sources stress that the decision does not signal retirement. The Rolling Stones have repeatedly resisted formal farewell tours, and members have stated in past interviews that they prefer to continue as long as performing feels right.
Reports suggest the band has continued working on new music following Hackney Diamonds, with additional recording sessions having taken place in London. While no release details have been announced, the possibility of new material remains a major point of interest for fans.
There is also speculation that the Stones could still perform live in alternative formats, such as one-off shows, festival appearances, or shorter residencies, rather than embarking on a full stadium tour.
Fan Reaction and Expectations
News of the shelved tour has prompted disappointment among fans, particularly in the UK and Europe, where the band has not toured extensively since before the pandemic. However, many supporters have expressed understanding, noting the physical demands involved and the importance of preserving the band’s legacy.
The Rolling Stones remain one of the most successful touring acts of all time, with multiple world tours grossing hundreds of millions of dollars. Their continued ability to sell out stadiums into their eighth decade has few parallels in popular music.
What Happens Next
At present, no future tour plans have been confirmed, and there is no indication that the Stones will revisit the 2026 European idea. For now, the band appears focused on recording and keeping options open rather than committing to a fixed schedule.
As the situation stands, fans will have to wait longer for a UK or European return — but with the Rolling Stones, history suggests that nothing is ever completely off the table.
