Megadeth's Farewell Tour: A Long Goodbye

Megadeth, the iconic thrash metal band led by frontman Dave Mustaine, has announced a farewell tour titled "This Was Our Life," set to commence in 2026. Mustaine indicated that the tour could extend for three to five years, potentially concluding around the time he turns 70 in 2031. In a recent interview with Kerrang!, he reflected on the significance of this tour, stating, “We’re easily talking about touring for another three to five years,” and acknowledged the reality of aging, saying, “I have to remember that people live and they die. And I need to take good care of myself.”

Dave Mustaine Says Megadeth’s Farewell Tour Will Last “Three to Five Years”DAVE MUSTAINE Says MEGADETH’s ‘Farewell’ Tour Could Last ‘Three To Five Years’Megadeth’s Long Goodbye Could Last “Three to Five Years”Megadeth’s farewell tour set to last ‘three to five years,’ says Dave Mustaine – 98KUPD – Arizona's Real RockDAVE MUSTAINE Says MEGADETH's 'Farewell' Tour Will 'Easily' Run For 'Three To Five Years'"I think when things happen like the throat cancer, or my neck being fused, or the saturnine palsy in my arm, most people would stop." Dave Mustaine on why Megadeth's final show might still be "three

Alongside the farewell tour, Megadeth will release their final studio album, a self-titled effort, on January 23, 2026. This album will feature a new version of Metallica's classic "Ride The Lightning," a song co-written by Mustaine during his time with the band. Mustaine emphasized the personal significance of this track, describing the recording as “closing the circle” and asserting that it should not simply be labeled a cover. He stated, “I think other people will say that, but if you’re asking me, I don’t think it’s a cover song.”

DAVE MUSTAINE Says MEGADETH’s ‘Farewell’ Tour Could Last ‘Three To Five Years’Dave Mustaine Says Megadeth’s Farewell Tour Will Last “Three to Five Years”DAVE MUSTAINE Says MEGADETH's 'Farewell' Tour Will 'Easily' Run For 'Three To Five Years'"I think when things happen like the throat cancer, or my neck being fused, or the saturnine palsy in my arm, most people would stop." Dave Mustaine on why Megadeth's final show might still be "three Megadeth’s farewell tour set to last ‘three to five years,’ says Dave Mustaine – 98KUPD – Arizona's Real RockMegadeth’s Long Goodbye Could Last “Three to Five Years”

In discussing the end of Megadeth's journey, Mustaine expressed gratitude towards fans for their support throughout the band's four-decade history. He remarked, “Most of them don't get to go out on their own terms on top, and that's where I'm at in my life right now.” He encouraged fans to celebrate the band's legacy during the upcoming tour, stating, “Don’t be mad, don’t be sad, be happy for us all, come celebrate with me these next few years.”

"I think when things happen like the throat cancer, or my neck being fused, or the saturnine palsy in my arm, most people would stop." Dave Mustaine on why Megadeth's final show might still be "three

While the farewell tour is met with excitement from many fans, some critics have raised concerns about the authenticity of a "farewell" tour that spans several years. Questions have been raised about whether such an extended farewell undermines the concept of finality in a farewell tour.

Dave Mustaine Says Megadeth’s Farewell Tour Will Last “Three to Five Years”

There is some ambiguity regarding the specifics of the tour schedule. While Mustaine has confirmed that the tour will begin in Latin America, details about the full itinerary remain sparse. Additionally, it is unclear whether Kiko Loureiro, the band's former guitarist, will return to the lineup, as he has taken a hiatus to focus on family.

DAVE MUSTAINE Says MEGADETH's 'Farewell' Tour Will 'Easily' Run For 'Three To Five Years'

• “We’re easily talking about touring for another three to five years.” — Dave Mustaine, Frontman of Megadeth

Dave Mustaine Says Megadeth’s Farewell Tour Will Last “Three to Five Years”

• “I have to remember that people live and they die. And I need to take good care of myself.” — Dave Mustaine

DAVE MUSTAINE Says MEGADETH’s ‘Farewell’ Tour Could Last ‘Three To Five Years’

• “Don't be mad, don't be sad, be happy for us all, come celebrate with me these next few years.” — Dave Mustaine

DAVE MUSTAINE Says MEGADETH's 'Farewell' Tour Will 'Easily' Run For 'Three To Five Years'

As Megadeth prepares for their farewell tour and album release, fans can anticipate a series of performances across Latin America and North America, including a notable stint supporting Iron Maiden. The band’s final chapter promises to be a celebration of their extensive contributions to the metal genre, culminating in a long-awaited goodbye.

Dave Mustaine Says Megadeth’s Farewell Tour Will Last “Three to Five Years”