Rod Stewart, the iconic singer known for his raspy voice and electrifying stage presence, has been announced as a headliner for Glastonbury Festival 2025.
The festival organizers revealed that Stewart, who will be 80 by the time the event rolls around, will perform in the much-celebrated Sunday teatime “legends” slot. This performance will mark a triumphant return to the festival’s hallowed Pyramid Stage, with fans eagerly anticipating a show brimming with his timeless hits and legendary charisma.
The announcement came via Stewart’s own Instagram account, where the singer expressed his excitement. “I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that I’ll be playing Glastonbury Festival 2025!” he wrote. Reflecting on his enduring career and connection with fans, he added,
“After all these years, I’m proud and ready and more than able to take the stage again to pleasure and titillate my friends at Glastonbury in June. I’ll see you there!” The post was accompanied by a nostalgic image that captured the spirit of his illustrious career.
Emily Eavis, co-organizer of the festival, shared the same announcement shortly after, highlighting the significance of Stewart’s participation. “Bringing Sir Rod Stewart back for the Sunday afternoon slot on the Pyramid Stage is everything we could wish for,” she wrote.
She also noted that this would be the final legends slot before Glastonbury takes its scheduled fallow year in 2026, a tradition designed to allow the land at Worthy Farm to recover after four consecutive years of festivities.
This won’t be Stewart’s first appearance at Glastonbury. The rock legend previously headlined the festival in 2002, closing the show on Sunday night alongside fellow big names like Coldplay and Stereophonics. His return to the Pyramid Stage after more than two decades will undoubtedly be a nostalgic moment for both the artist and his fans, many of whom have followed his career from its early days.
Rod Stewart’s musical journey began as the frontman of the 1970s rock band Faces. Alongside Ronnie Wood, now of the Rolling Stones, and other talented bandmates, Stewart rose to prominence with a blend of bluesy rock and charismatic performances.
Before that, he also performed with the Jeff Beck Group, contributing to the critically acclaimed albums Truth and Beck-Ola. These early experiences cemented his reputation as a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic performer.
As a solo artist, Stewart has enjoyed unparalleled success. With 25 UK top 10 singles and 38 UK top 10 albums to his name, his career has spanned over six decades. Some of his most iconic songs, such as Maggie May, You Wear It Well, and Sailing, continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. His ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to his roots has made him one of the most enduring figures in rock and pop music.
In 2016, Stewart’s contributions to music and charity were formally recognized when he was knighted at Buckingham Palace. This honor cemented his legacy not just as a performer but as a cultural icon.
Additionally, his induction into the US Rock & Roll Hall of Fame further attests to his influence and enduring appeal on both sides of the Atlantic.
The coveted Sunday legends slot at Glastonbury has a rich history, featuring performances by some of the greatest artists of all time. Previous acts include Kylie Minogue, Dame Shirley Bassey, Diana Ross, and Yusuf/Cat Stevens, with Canadian country-pop star Shania Twain taking the position in 2024. Stewart’s addition to this illustrious lineup only adds to the prestige of this tradition, which has become a cornerstone of the festival.
Glastonbury 2025 tickets have already proven to be in high demand, selling out in just 35 minutes earlier this month. This year, a new ticketing system randomized places in the queue, replacing the stressful page-refreshing process of previous years. Fans who missed out will have another chance in spring 2025, when canceled or returned tickets are scheduled to be resold.
Despite recently announcing his decision to end large-scale world tours, Stewart reassured fans that he has no plans to retire. His Glastonbury performance will likely be one of the last opportunities to see him in such a monumental setting, making the event even more special for longtime admirers of his work.
The anticipation for Stewart’s return to Glastonbury is palpable, not only because of his legendary status but also because of what his performance represents.
It’s a celebration of a career that has brought joy to millions and an acknowledgment of his remarkable ability to connect with audiences across generations.
As Worthy Farm gears up to host another unforgettable festival, fans can look forward to an extraordinary set from one of music’s greatest icons. With his distinctive voice, unparalleled showmanship, and a catalog of timeless hits, Rod Stewart’s performance promises to be a fitting highlight of Glastonbury 2025.
The countdown to June has already begun, and with it, the excitement of what promises to be a truly legendary event.
