Keith Richards and the Rolling Stones: A New Chapter as 2026 Tour Plans Cancelled

Introduction: The End of an Era?

Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist of The Rolling Stones, has once again captured headlines—but this time, for reasons that have left fans worldwide contemplating the band’s future. The Rolling Stones have called off plans for a 2026 stadium tour of the United Kingdom and Europe, a source close to the band confirms to Variety, following reports that guitarist Keith Richards was unable to “commit” to it. At 82 years old, Richards’ decision highlights the physical challenges that come with decades of rock and roll, and raises important questions about what lies ahead for one of music’s most enduring acts.

Health Challenges and Arthritis Battle

Richards, who turns 82 on Thursday, is said to be unable to commit to the rigors of another tour. Live dates in recent years have shown that he has faced challenges due to a long battle with arthritis, which he has called “benign” and said has forced him to change his style of playing. Despite these difficulties, Richards has remained remarkably resilient. Richards was in fine form during a brief three-song performance at the Soho Sessions in New York last month, however, that is a much different proposition than a multi-country, multi-week tour.

The Decision to Cancel

The cancellation came after serious discussions about the demanding nature of a stadium tour. “When they properly sat down to discuss the tour, Keith said he didn’t think he could commit and wasn’t keen on a big stadium tour for over four months,” an unnamed “American music critic” reportedly told British tabloid The Sun on Monday. The Stones have toured nearly every year since the early 2000s, in increasingly small itineraries as the three principals — Mick Jagger, 82, Ron Wood, 78, and Richards — have grown older; original drummer Charlie Watts died in 2021 and was replaced by longtime Richards collaborator Steve Jordan.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Stones?

While touring plans have been shelved, The Rolling Stones are still seemingly on track to release a new album in 2026. The group’s touring pianist Chuck Leavell and a spokesperson recently told press in the U.K. that the band has nearly completed a new album — their second with 35-year-old producer Andrew Watt — and planned on touring the U.K. and Europe. For fans, this news offers hope that while the band may not embark on lengthy tours, their creative spirit remains strong. The cancellation may mark a transition rather than an ending, as Richards and his bandmates navigate the realities of ageing while continuing to create music that has defined generations.