Elton John at Rock in Rio 2026: a special return after the farewell tour

The confirmation of Elton John as a headliner at Rock in Rio 2026 marks one of the most significant musical announcements of recent years. The legendary British artist, who officially concluded his major world tour in 2023, will return to Brazil for a special performance scheduled for September 7, 2026, on the iconic Palco Mundo.

This return carries special meaning, as it comes after the end of the Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, which Elton John described as his final large-scale touring chapter. Since then, he has chosen to appear only in carefully selected, one-off performances, making his presence at Rock in Rio a rare and historic event.

The end of the farewell tour and a new phase

Between 2018 and 2023, Elton John toured the world with the monumental Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, widely regarded as one of the most successful tours in music history. At its conclusion, the artist explained that he wanted to slow down, spend more time with his family, and step away from long and demanding global schedules.

However, he also made it clear that he was not retiring completely from live music. Instead, he would take part only in special, standalone performances, outside the structure of a traditional tour. This new phase made room for selected appearances — including his return to Brazil through Rock in Rio 2026.

“I want to make it up to my Brazilian fans”

When speaking about his decision to perform at the festival, Elton John explained that the invitation had a strong emotional motivation, especially because Brazil was not included in his farewell tour.

“In September 2026 I’m going to Rio to play Rock in Rio because I didn’t get to go to Brazil on the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. I felt I disappointed a lot of Brazilian fans, so I want to make it up to them and put on a fantastic show. I’m really excited about it.”

The artist also highlighted his long-standing connection with Brazilian audiences:

“I’ve always had wonderful moments whenever I’ve played in Brazil. Brazilian fans hold a very special place in my heart.”

Reflecting on his current relationship with live performances, Elton added:

“We’re playing really well, sounding as good as ever, and most importantly, we still love playing together. These special shows have a very different kind of energy.”

A long-awaited reunion with Brazilian audiences

Elton John’s last visit to Brazil took place years before the end of his farewell tour, which left many fans disappointed when the country was not included in the final itinerary. For this reason, the announcement of Rock in Rio 2026 was received as a long-awaited and symbolic reunion.

The performance will also mark another chapter in Elton John’s history with the festival, where he has appeared in previous editions. In 2026, he will share the same day with Gilberto Gil, creating a powerful encounter between two legendary figures of global music.

A concert that goes beyond nostalgia

Although the official setlist has not yet been revealed, expectations are that Elton John will perform many of his timeless classics, including Your Song, Rocket Man, Tiny Dancer, Bennie and the Jets, I’m Still Standing, and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

More than a nostalgic experience, the show is expected to celebrate a career defined by artistic innovation, longevity, and cultural influence. At a time when his live appearances are rare, each performance carries historical weight.

A historic moment for Rock in Rio

Elton John’s presence at Rock in Rio 2026 reinforces the festival’s status as a global stage for unique and defining musical moments. After closing the largest tour of his career and choosing to perform only on special occasions, his decision to return to Brazil represents a meaningful chapter in his legacy.

For fans, researchers, and admirers of his work, this concert is more than just a show — it is a living celebration of the career of one of the most influential artists in the history of popular music.

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