Legendary singer-songwriter Neil Young has abruptly canceled all of his 2026 European and UK tour dates, including scheduled shows in Ireland, the U.K. and across continental Europe, with no replacement dates announced at this time. The news was confirmed today by multiple outlets after Young posted a message on his official Neil Young Archives website saying that “this is not the time” for him to be touring.
The run, dubbed the “Love Earth Tour,” was set to begin June 19, 2026 in Manchester, England and continue through July with headline dates, festival appearances and outdoor shows in France, Scotland, Wales, The Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, Switzerland and Italy. Elvis Costello & The Imposters were scheduled as support for select dates before the cancellation announcement.
With the entire itinerary now called off, venues including Eden Sessions in Cornwall and planned shows in Cardiff and Cork’s Virgin Media Park will no longer take place. Event organizers have confirmed that ticket refunds will be issued through the original points of purchase.
Young’s Statement: “This Is Not the Time”
In the announcement shared on his archives site, Neil Young wrote,
“I have decided to take a break and will not be touring Europe this time. Thanks to everyone who bought tickets. I’m sorry to let you down, but this is not the time. I do love playing LIVE and being with you and the Chrome Hearts. LOVE Neil, be well.”
Young, now 80, has performed extensively across Europe over his six-decade career, including shows at major events like Glastonbury and BST Hyde Park in 2025. His backing band, The Chrome Hearts, formed in 2024, includes guitarist Micah Nelson, bassist Corey McCormick, drummer Anthony LoGerfo and acclaimed keyboardist Spooner Oldham.
Young’s brief message did not specify a detailed reason for the cancellation, other than to say it simply wasn’t the right time for him to tour. His statement stopped short of citing health issues, family matters or political motivations — leaving fans and observers to speculate on the timing.
At this stage, no rescheduled dates or alternative plans have been announced for later in 2026 or beyond. Refund details are expected to be communicated directly by venues and ticketing platforms such as Ticketmaster and Eden Sessions, with many purchasers warned to allow standard processing times for refunds.
Fans have expressed disappointment and concern online, with many hoping Young’s decision reflects a need for rest rather than a more serious issue. On social platforms, supporters shared memories of past shows and expressed hope for future dates, emphasizing respect for Young’s long and influential career.
Young’s impact on rock and folk music spans generations, with a legacy that includes defining albums like Harvest and After the Gold Rush, and his outspoken approach to artistic and political ideas. While the cancelation is a setback for European fans, his body of work and surviving live performances remain widely celebrated.
The planned tour was confirmed late in 2025 and was set to include:
- June 17 — Eden Sessions (Cornwall, UK)
- June 19 — Heaton Park (Manchester, England)
- June 27 — State Fayre Festival (Chelmsford)
- June 29 — Glasgow Summer Sessions (Scotland)
- July 1 — Virgin Media Park (Cork, Ireland)
- July 3 — Blenheim Palace Festival (Oxford, England)
- July 5 — Blackweir Fields (Cardiff, Wales)
- July 26 — Final show in Udine, Italy
— all now canceled.
