Rock legend Sir Rod Stewart has announced his retirement from touring after more than six decades on stage.
The 81-year-old Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? singer is set to bring his remarkable live career to a close with one final tour, beginning at Dublin’s 3Arena next year.
Confirming the news, Stewart said: “After more than six decades, The Final Encore will most definitely be my last.
“I’ve been singing the music I love since I was 19 years old, and I’ve had the privilege of taking it around the world to all of you. It has given me a life beyond anything I could ever have imagined, and I hope I’ve given you some fond memories in return.”
Rock legend Sir Rod Stewart has announced he is retiring after more than six decades on stage.
Thanking fans for their support throughout his extraordinary career, Stewart said: “So, may I take this opportunity to thank you for making this extraordinary life possible. I hope you’ll join me so I can thank you the best way I know how … with the music and one hell of a show. See you there.”
Stewart’s farewell tour is expected to celebrate his remarkable career with performances of many of his biggest hits, including Maggie May, You Wear It Well, Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright), Hot Legs, Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? and Young Turks.
The singer is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with more than 250 million records sold worldwide. He has also been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame twice — once for his solo career and once as a member of Faces.
British rock singer Rod Stewart rehearses at the London Weekend Television (LWT) studios ahead of the return of Saturday pop programme Supersonic in 1976.
Medical issues derail US tour
Last month, Stewart was forced to cancel the remaining 11 dates of his US tour, including a six-show Las Vegas residency, after undergoing a heart procedure in which a stent was fitted.
A stent is a small mesh tube inserted into a narrowed or blocked coronary artery to help restore blood flow to the heart.
“I’m already feeling better and very much on the mend,” Stewart wrote on Instagram.
Singer Rod Stewart and guitarist Ronnie Wood of Faces perform in concert in 1975.
“I want to thank the doctors, nurses and everyone who has taken such wonderful care of me,” Stewart said.
“I am deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon.”
His representative later shared an update on Instagram, saying doctors were “pleased with his recovery.”
The 81-year-old Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? singer will bring his career to a close with one final tour, kicking off at Dublin’s 3Arena next year.
Rod Stewart performs at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance in London on November 8, 2025.
“Rod is doing very well and has returned to his normal daily activities. On the advice of his doctors, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage,” the statement read.
“Unfortunately, this means he will be unable to continue with his current tour dates.
“Information regarding affected performances will be communicated by the respective promoters and venues.”
