Metallica has officially announced the 2026 European leg of their M72 World Tour, set to commence on May 9 in Athens, Greece, and conclude on July 5 in London, England. This leg will feature special guests Gojira, Pantera, Knocked Loose, and Avatar on select dates, offering fans a diverse lineup of heavy metal acts.
A Triumphant Return to Europe
The 2026 European tour marks Metallica's return to the continent after several years, bringing their renowned live performances to fans across multiple countries. The band will perform in cities including Athens, Bucharest, Warsaw, Munich, Zurich, Milan, Budapest, Dublin, Glasgow, Cardiff, and London. Each city will host two unique shows as part of the band's "No Repeat Weekend" tradition, featuring different setlists and opening acts on each night.
Innovative Stage Design and Immersive Experience
Continuing their commitment to delivering unparalleled live experiences, Metallica's M72 World Tour features a distinctive in-the-round stage design, placing the band at the center of the stadium to provide a 360-degree concert experience. This setup includes the "Snake Pit," a fan-favorite area located at the heart of the stage, offering select attendees an up-close view of the performance.
Recent Performances and Fan Reception
Metallica's recent performances have been met with critical acclaim and enthusiastic fan responses. In April 2025, the band broke a 43-year-old attendance record at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York, with over 47,000 fans in attendance. Additionally, their sold-out show at Virginia Tech's Lane Stadium in May 2025 was notable for generating ground movement registered as a small earthquake, a testament to the energy and enthusiasm of the crowd.
Continued Success and Legacy
Since the release of their eleventh studio album, "72 Seasons," in April 2023, Metallica has embarked on the M72 World Tour, performing across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. The tour has seen the band play to over three million fans, grossing more than $305 million from 43 shows. Their innovative approach to live performances, including immersive visuals and dynamic setlists, has solidified their status as one of the most influential bands in heavy metal history.
For more information on tour dates and locations, fans are encouraged to visit Metallica's official website.
