Sir Rod Stewart has announced he will perform in Manchester next year as part of his final ever tour following his recent health issues.
The singer, one of the best-selling artists of all time, has announced his 'The Final Encore' tour, which will see him say farewell to life on the road as he plays his last ever shows in the UK and Europe.
Earlier this summer, the 81-year-old successfully underwent a routine coronary stent procedure, with his recovery resulting in the cancellation of a series of tour dates in the US and Mexico last month. At the time, he said he was 'deeply disappointed' to 'let my fans down'.
Final Tour Dates and Venues
In a video message, Rod explained that the new tour dates will 'most definitely be my last'. Kicking off at the 3Arena in Dublin on April 23, the tour will also include stops in Belfast, Glasgow and Birmingham, before heading to Co-op Live in Manchester on Tuesday, May 6 next year.
He will also play London's The O2, as well as shows across Europe including stops in Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Tickets will go on sale via Ticketmaster later this week.
For the UK shows, Rod will be joined by support from Howard Jones. Rod said 'The Final Encore' tour will serve as a celebration of his career and some of his biggest hits, including Maggie May, Hot Legs, Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?, Baby Jane and Tonight's the Night (Gonna Be Alright).
Message to Fans
In a message to fans, Rod said: "My dear friends, The time has come to say farewell to life on the road. 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. 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."
Ticket Sale Details
Tickets will first be available to buy via Rod's fan club on Tuesday (September 29), with local pre-sales then taking place, including one for the Manchester show for Co-operative members taking place on Wednesday (September 30) from 10am.
Tickets will then go on general sale on Friday (October 2) at 10am via Ticketmaster. The tour will conclude with a show at ZAG Arena in Hannover, Germany, on July 24.
