The Rolling Stones are one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and anytime there is news about a possible tour, fans around the world get excited. Recently, many fans believed the legendary British band would return to Europe for a huge stadium tour in 2026. However, new reports say those plans have now been canceled.
After taking 2025 off from touring, the band previously spent much of the summer of 2024 touring across North America. Because of this, many people assumed Europe would be next. Promoters were already discussing dates, and rumors even included possible shows at major venues like Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. But according to recent reports, those plans are no longer moving forward .
Why Was the Tour Canceled?
According to reports first shared by The Sun and later confirmed by trusted music outlets like Variety and NME, the main reason for the cancellation is Keith Richards. The legendary guitarist is turning 82 years old, and sources say he felt unable to fully commit to a long and demanding stadium tour .
One source explained that when the band sat down to seriously discuss the tour schedule, Richards said he wasn’t comfortable with the idea of performing in large stadiums for more than four months. Stadium tours require intense travel, long rehearsals, and frequent performances, which can be physically exhausting — especially at his age.
Keith Richards and Health Concerns
Keith Richards has been open about the effects of aging on his body, especially when it comes to playing guitar. In a 2023 interview with BBC Radio 4, he spoke about having arthritis. While he said he doesn’t experience much pain, he admitted that age has slowed him down slightly .
Despite this, Richards shared a positive outlook. He explained that when his fingers don’t move the same way they used to, he finds new ways to play chords and notes. For him, music is still a learning process. However, adapting in the studio is very different from committing to a long, physically demanding world tour.
Mixed Signals Before the Cancellation
Before the news broke, there were several hints that a European tour was being planned. Longtime Rolling Stones pianist Chuck Leavell said in an interview that the band was not ready to retire and that Europe seemed like the most likely next destination after touring the U.S. in recent years .
Keith Richards’ son, Marlon Richards, also mentioned earlier this year that the band was planning a European tour. These comments gave fans hope that an announcement was coming soon. That’s why the cancellation news came as a disappointment to many.
What Are The Rolling Stones Doing Instead?
While touring plans are on hold, the band is far from inactive. Instead of hitting the road in 2025, The Rolling Stones chose to focus on making new music. They are currently working on a follow-up album to their 2023 release Hackney Diamonds.
Producer Andrew Watt, who worked on Hackney Diamonds, confirmed that he has been recording with the band again. However, he has kept details about the new album secret, only hinting that something is in progress .
Is This the End of Touring for The Stones?
For now, the band has not officially said they are retiring from touring completely. The canceled 2026 tour simply means they are being careful about their health and energy levels. Smaller shows, shorter tours, or special appearances could still happen in the future.
Final Thoughts
Although it’s disappointing that The Rolling Stones won’t be touring Europe in 2026, the decision makes sense. After decades of nonstop touring and performing, the band is choosing what’s best for their health and longevity. Fans may not get stadium shows anytime soon, but new music is on the way — and that’s something worth looking forward to.