Legendary British heavy metal icons Iron Maiden have announced the next chapter of their historic "Run For Your Lives" 50th-anniversary world tour, set to storm Europe in the summer of 2026. The tour extension marks another milestone for the band as they continue celebrating five decades of groundbreaking music, thrilling fans with exclusive performances featuring tracks from their first nine albums.
A Monumental Return Across Europe
The 2026 leg of the "Run For Your Lives" tour begins on May 23 in Athens, Greece, at the OAKA stadium, followed by stops in iconic cities such as Sofia, Bucharest, Bratislava, Hannover, Amsterdam, Milan, Paris, Lyon, and Lisbon. The band will wrap up this leg of the tour with a special UK headline show on July 11, though details about the location and venue remain under wraps for now. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates in the coming weeks.
Tickets for these eagerly awaited shows will go on sale starting Monday, September 22, 2025, via the band’s official website. Given Iron Maiden's reputation for delivering unforgettable live experiences, demand is expected to be sky-high.
A Special Paris Show: Live Filming Event
One standout moment during the tour will take place in Paris on June 22, where the band will perform at the Paris La Défense Arena. This concert will not only mark a triumphant return to one of their favorite cities but also serve as a live filming event for posterity. In a nod to enhancing the fan experience, the Paris show will implement Yondr’s secure phone-free pouch system for general admission tickets (standing areas), ensuring audiences remain fully present throughout the performance.
"We chose an indoor stadium to capture the best of our production and because we know Paris always delivers an incredible audience," the band shared in a statement. They praised fans for embracing the limited phone-use policy during recent tours, which created a more immersive atmosphere that elevated every show.
New Drummer Simon Dawson Steps Into the Spotlight
This tour also solidifies Simon Dawson's role as Iron Maiden’s touring drummer following the retirement of longtime sticksman Nicko McBrain. McBrain stepped back from touring last year after suffering a minor stroke in 2023, leaving him partially paralyzed on his right side. Dawson, who has worked extensively with bassist Steve Harris in British Lion, brings fresh energy while honoring the band’s rich legacy.
A Celebration of Classic Tracks
True to form, Iron Maiden continues to honor their roots on the "Run For Your Lives" tour by exclusively performing songs from their first nine studio albums, spanning from their eponymous debut in 1980 to Fear of the Dark in 1992. Recent performances have included rare gems like "Murders in the Rue Morgue" (played for the first time since 2005), "Killers" (last performed in 1999), and "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" (not played live since 2009). These deep cuts, combined with timeless classics, ensure each concert feels both nostalgic and exhilarating.
Full List of 2026 Tour Dates
Here are the confirmed dates and venues for Iron Maiden’s 2026 European tour:
MAY
23: Athens, GREECE – OAKA
26: Sofia, BULGARIA – Vasil Levski Stadium
28: Bucharest, ROMANIA – Arena Națională
30: Bratislava, SLOVAKIA – Národný Futbalový Štadión
JUNE
2: Hannover, GERMANY – Heinz von Heiden Arena
10: Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS – Ziggo Dome
17: Milan, ITALY – San Siro Stadium
22: Paris, FRANCE – Paris La Défense Arena (Live Filming Event)
28: Lyon - Décines, FRANCE – Groupama Stadium
JULY
7: Lisbon, PORTUGAL – Estádio da Luz
11: UK – Venue TBA (Special Headline Show)
Looking Ahead
Iron Maiden’s dedication to delivering electrifying performances remains unmatched. With plans to visit additional regions later in 2026, the band promises to bring their unparalleled energy to fans worldwide before taking a well-deserved break in 2027.
For die-hard fans and newcomers alike, the "Run For Your Lives" tour is shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of Iron Maiden’s enduring legacy. Don’t miss your chance to witness history unfold!
Iron Maiden will embark on an epic 2026 European tour, kicking off in Athens on May 23 and concluding with a highly anticipated UK headline show on July 11.