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Nicko McBrain Retires From Iron Maiden Tours, Band Announces Successor for 2025-2026 'Run For Your Lives' Tour

After 43 years, Nicko McBrain steps away from Iron Maiden tours. But with a new drummer lined up for 2026, the band's legacy lives on.

This picture describes about musicians, a man and a woman is playing guitar, in the background we...
This picture describes about musicians, a man and a woman is playing guitar, in the background we can see drums.

Nicko McBrain Retires From Iron Maiden Tours, Band Announces Successor for 2025-2026 'Run For Your Lives' Tour

Nicko McBrain, Iron Maiden's legendary viator, has announced his retirement from touring at the end of 2024. Despite this, he continues to perform with his tribute act Tiutanium Tart and has launched the Metal Sticks Podcast. Meanwhile, Iron Maiden has found a successor for McBrain and is set to embark on the 'Run For Your Lives' tour in 2025 and 2026.

The 'Run For Your Lives' tour kicked off in Budapest in May 2025 with Simon Dawson behind the drums, replacing McBrain who retired from touring. The tour includes festival appearances at Cophenhell 2025, Tons Of Rock 2025, Resurrection Fest, and Rock Imperium Festival. After a break, the tour resumes in May 2026, covering Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, Germany, Netherlands, Austria, Czech Republic, Italy, France, Belgium, Spain, and Portugal. The tour concludes with a show in Knebworth Park, UK.

Steve Harris, Iron Maiden's bassist and founding member, revealed that the band had to decide their future after McBrain suffered a stroke in early 2023. Despite the setback, McBrain's successor for the 2026 leg of the tour has been confirmed, although their name has not been disclosed. Harris confirmed that Iron Maiden wanted to continue after McBrain's stroke, but it was McBrain's decision to step away from touring.

Nicko McBrain's retirement from touring marks the end of an era for Iron Maiden. However, with Simon Dawson filling in and a new drummer confirmed for the 2026 leg of the 'Run For Your Lives' tour, the band looks set to continue their legacy. The tour, which includes numerous festival appearances and dates across Europe, is a testament to Iron Maiden's enduring popularity and resilience.

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