Music legend Elton John has been confirmed as the first headliner for Rock in Rio 2026, surprising fans around the world by returning to the stage despite previously announcing his retirement from touring.
He is scheduled to perform on September 7, 2026, on the festival’s main stage — the World Stage (Palco Mundo) — marking what will be his only show in Brazil that year.
Elton, now 78, ended his globe‑spanning “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour in July 2023. While he said at the time he would no longer tour, he left the door open to occasional one‑off performances.
In a statement about the Rock in Rio appearance, Elton said: “I love my Brazilian fans, they hold such a special place in my heart. The energy these big one‑off shows have been giving me since I stopped touring is unbeatable.” He added that his band is “playing brilliantly” and they are still “loving playing together,” promising an unforgettable night in Rio.
Festival founder and president Roberto Medina said bringing Elton to Rock in Rio “is an honour,” calling him “a living legend” whose legacy and music embody everything the festival stands for — emotion, connection, and the transformative power of art.
Tickets for the Rock in Rio “Card” — a pre‑sale pass that gives access before the full lineup is announced — will go on sale December 9, 2025, via Ticketmaster Brazil.
Elton’s appearance is already being described as a historic moment for the festival and a major comeback for the artist — a one‑night‑only opportunity for Brazilian fans to see the icon live after nearly a decade.
With this announcement, Rock in Rio 2026 has officially kicked off its lineup reveal — and the world is watching.
