After more than four decades of relentless speed, razor-sharp riffs, and uncompromising attitude, Megadeth have officially announced their retirement. The band’s upcoming 17th studio album, set for release in 2026, will be their last — closing the book on one of the most influential legacies in heavy metal history. The record will be followed by a global farewell tour, giving fans one final chance to celebrate the music that defined generations.
A Farewell on Their Own Terms
Frontman Dave Mustaine revealed that the decision to step away comes from a place of strength, not decline.
“The hardest part of all of this is saying goodbye, but I want Megadeth to end while we’re still strong, while we’re still delivering music with fire and passion,” Mustaine stated.
The as-yet-untitled album is being produced once again with longtime collaborator Chris Rakestraw and will be released under Mustaine’s Tradecraft label in partnership with Frontiers Label Group’s BLKIIBLK. Fans can expect the first single later this year, with pre-orders set to open in the autumn.
Alongside the album, Mustaine will publish a new memoir, offering a personal reflection on his career, struggles, and triumphs across 40+ years in the metal world.
The Farewell Tour
Megadeth’s final world tour will begin in 2026, with some early hints of European festival appearances in late 2025 to pave the way. Though official dates are still being confirmed, the band promises an ambitious global schedule, revisiting regions they’ve conquered countless times over the decades.
The tour is being framed not as a mourning, but as a celebration:
“Don’t be mad, don’t be sad — be happy for us and come celebrate what we’ve achieved together,” Mustaine urged fans.
Megadeth’s Place in Metal History
Formed in 1983 after Mustaine’s departure from Metallica, Megadeth became one of the pillars of the Big Four of thrash metal (alongside Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax). Their technical precision, political lyricism, and blistering speed helped define the genre, influencing generations of musicians.
Classic records like Peace Sells… But Who’s Buying? (1986), Rust in Peace (1990), and Countdown to Extinction (1992) remain cornerstones of heavy metal, while their latest album, The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead! (2022), proved that Megadeth could still deliver crushing music well into their fourth decade.
Why This Farewell Matters
Megadeth’s retirement marks the end of an era. Along with Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax, they didn’t just shape thrash metal — they reshaped the landscape of heavy music worldwide. Their influence stretches far beyond the metal underground, inspiring artists across rock, punk, and even modern hardcore and deathcore scenes.
Now, as they prepare to step away, their farewell will be more than just a series of concerts: it will be a celebration of resilience, survival, and innovation in a genre that Megadeth helped define.
For fans, it’s a bittersweet moment. One last album. One last tour. One last chance to witness Dave Mustaine’s snarling vocals and signature riffs echo through arenas around the world.
As Mustaine himself put it:
“We’re not leaving behind an ending. We’re leaving behind a legacy.”
