Iron Maiden have officially unveiled the European leg of their Run For Your Lives 50th anniversary tour, and fans can expect an electrifying summer in 2026. The legendary band will return to Europe in late May, delivering a powerhouse setlist drawn from their first nine albums — a celebration of the songs that built their legacy. The run will come to a dramatic close on July 11 with a major headline show in the UK, the details of which are still under wraps, keeping the anticipation alive among their loyal fanbase.
This announcement comes on the heels of a record-breaking first leg earlier in the year, which attracted more than a million fans across Europe and the UK. Bassist Steve Harris reflected on the overwhelming response, calling the shows “incredible” and noting that the setlist may be one of the strongest of their career. He also confirmed that drummer Simon Dawson, who joined them during the last tour, will remain with the band for this chapter, praising fans for the warm reception Dawson has received.
A big highlight of the tour is Iron Maiden’s return to major European festivals. Harris expressed the band’s excitement about performing in front of both longtime supporters and new audiences, stressing how much they thrive on the unique energy festival crowds bring. Fans in Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Bulgaria will be especially thrilled, as the band is set to revisit these countries after having missed them in the earlier leg. Each return marks a continuation of the deep connection Maiden has fostered with passionate audiences across the continent.
Manager Rod Smallwood expanded on the significance of the 2026 dates, underlining how festivals have been pivotal to Iron Maiden’s career — from their legendary Rock in Rio performance in 1985 to today’s massive European gatherings. Among the milestones is their historic debut at Milan’s San Siro Stadium, where they will become the first-ever metal act to headline the venue. Paris La Défense Arena is also back on the schedule after two sold-out shows this year, with plans to film a special performance for release. To preserve the live atmosphere, Maiden will collaborate with Yondr to introduce a phone-free floor section, creating an experience fans won’t soon forget.
While European fans are already counting down the days, the band has hinted that this is only the beginning. Additional global dates are expected to be announced later in 2026, before Iron Maiden take a well-deserved break in 2027. After five decades at the forefront of heavy metal, Iron Maiden continue to prove that their fire burns brighter than ever — and the Run For Your Lives tour is shaping up to be a celebration worthy of their enduring legacy.
Iron Maiden 2026 European Tour Dates
- May 23 – Athens, Greece @ Oaka
- May 26 – Sofia, Bulgaria @ Vasil Levski Stadium
- May 28 – Bucharest, Romania @ Arena Națională
- May 30 – Bratislava, Slovakia @ Národný Futbalový Štadión
- June 2 – Hannover, Germany @ Heinz Von Heiden Arena
- June 10 – Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Ziggo Dome
- June 17 – Milan, Italy @ San Siro Stadium
- June 22 – Paris, France @ Paris La Défense Arena
- June 28 – Lyon-Décines, France @ Groupama Stadium
- July 7 – Lisbon, Portugal @ Estádio da Luz
- July 11 – United Kingdom (Headline Show – details to be revealed)
