Elton John Tapped To Headline Next Year’s Rock In Rio

Fans who missed Sir Elton John’s farewell tour will have another opportunity to see him perform live on stage in Brazil next year. Rock in Rio, a major festival that has featured icons from all genres, announced its first headliner in John, who will be returning to the South American nation for the first time in nearly a decade.

The iconic musician retired from touring in 2023 following his historic five-year, 328-date “Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour,” which grossed a whopping $939 million, but he has taken the stage for special performances since then.

Rock in Rio founder Roberto Medina called the booking a “historic moment” for the festival, and John said yes to performing in Brazil because he didn’t visit South America during his farewell tour.

“I love my Brazilian fans; they hold such a special place in my heart,” John said. “The energy these big one-off shows have been giving me since I stopped touring is unbeatable. As a band, we’re playing brilliantly and we’re sounding as good as we ever have, and, importantly, we’re still really loving playing together. I really cannot wait to return to Brazil next summer.”

Tickets for Rock in Rio 2026 go on sale to the general public Dec. 9 via Ticketmaster Brazil. For more information, visit rockinrio.com.