"But something changed when the band's plans for a European tour in 2026 were canceled. Officially, no reason was given although some media outlets are certain that Keith Richards jumped ship from the Stones. Arthritis is being mentioned, although the guitarist has suffered from it for many years. In interviews, he has pointed out that this condition has forced him to play differently and has, in a way, even improved him as an instrumentalist."
"Or perhaps it's just that the ordeal of facing four months away from home, traveling extensively (albeit with all the creature comforts, and with physiotherapists and doctors available 24-hours-a-day) and slinging a guitar for two hours a night is no longer worth it for him. There's no reason to worry about Richards' health, as he's recently been seen in clubs playing the guitar. However, these performances were brief."
The Rolling Stones canceled their planned 2026 European tour without an official reason, prompting media speculation that Keith Richards would step back from the band. Richards has long suffered arthritis, a condition he says forced him to play differently and in some ways improved his instrumental approach. Extended tours—months away from home, constant travel, nightly performances—may no longer be worth the physical toll. Richards has recently appeared in clubs playing guitar, though only briefly. The band's last Spain performance on June 1, 2022 received strong reviews; Jagger and Richards were 78 and Ronnie Wood turned 75, while drummer Charlie Watts had passed away in 2021. Spanish band Sidonie's singer recounted seeing the Stones arrive by limousine at soundcheck.
Read at english.elpais.com
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