“A Clash of Legends, A Bond of Brotherhood” — Iron Maiden Pens Open Letter to Metallica Ahead of Epic Joint Tour

In a moment that sent shockwaves across the global metal community, Iron Maiden has published an emotional and electrifying open letter addressed to Metallica, marking the announcement of their upcoming historic joint tour. The letter, shared on Iron Maiden’s official website and social platforms this morning, reads like a tribute, a challenge, and a celebration of decades-long camaraderie between two of the most influential bands in heavy metal history.

Titled “To the Four Horsemen From the Beast”, the letter is a poetic salute to Metallica’s legacy, and a rousing declaration of what fans can expect when these titans of metal share the stage for the first time in a full-scale co-headlining world tour — dubbed “The Metal Crusade: Legacy United Tour 2026.”

The Letter: A Gesture of Mutual Respect

The open letter begins:

“To our loud, proud brothers in thunder — James, Lars, Kirk, and Rob —
You’ve ridden the lightning. We’ve run to the hills. But now, we march together.”

In the tone of seasoned warriors saluting each other before battle, Iron Maiden celebrates the shared history that spans over four decades. The letter goes on to acknowledge the pioneering role Metallica played in ushering in thrash metal to the mainstream, while subtly weaving in references to both bands’ iconic discographies:

“While you were fueling the fire with Master of Puppets, we were screaming Powerslave to the skies. Two different paths, one common flame — forged in sweat, volume, and rebellion.”

It continues by addressing the fans directly:

“To the fans — our heart and steel — this tour isn’t just another setlist. It’s a summit of spirits, a roaring fusion of generations, of patches worn, of fists raised, of battles lived in the pit.”

A Long-Awaited Union

Although Iron Maiden and Metallica have long co-existed as leaders of their own unique metal kingdoms, they have never embarked on a full-length tour together — a fact that has puzzled fans for decades.

The letter addresses this directly:

“People have asked for years — why not together? The truth is, our journeys were parallel, never intersecting. We carved our worlds, not avoiding each other, but respecting the space. Now, it’s time. Not for rivalry. But for unity.”

Rumors of the tour began swirling earlier this year after both bands began teasing “something colossal” through cryptic social media posts. But today’s confirmation, paired with the sincerity and weight of the open letter, has cemented the event as more than just a business venture — it’s a cultural milestone.

The Metal Crusade: Legacy United Tour 2026

Alongside the letter, Iron Maiden’s management and Metallica’s HQ have jointly announced dates and locations for the tour, which kicks off in June 2026. Stops include:

• London’s Wembley Stadium
• Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium
• Tokyo Dome
• São Paulo’s Allianz Parque
• Sydney’s Accor Stadium
• Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium

Each night will feature extended co-headlining sets, surprise collaborations, and a rotating roster of opening acts spanning metal’s rising stars and classic legends.

Iron Maiden’s Steve Harris commented briefly following the letter’s release:

“This is more than a tour — it’s a statement. We’re not slowing down, and neither are they. We’re doing this for the fans, for the legacy, and for the love of it all.”

Lars Ulrich of Metallica added via X (formerly Twitter):

“Got the letter, mates. We’re fired up. The Metal Crusade begins — let’s make history.”

The Fans React

The reaction from fans worldwide has been immediate and explosive. Social media platforms have lit up with excitement, tears, and disbelief. Hashtags like #LegacyUnited, #MaidenAndMetallica, and #MetalCrusade2026 are trending globally.

One fan on Reddit wrote:

“This is the Avengers of metal. Maiden and Metallica on one stage? I never thought I’d see the day.”

Another shared:

“The letter brought me to tears. This isn’t just about music. It’s about everything this genre has stood for — freedom, power, unity.”

Conclusion: A Tour for the Ages

As the open letter closes with a final, rallying line:

“To the mighty Metallica — let’s wake the gods. The stage is set. The world is ready. Let the Metal Crusade begin.”

Iron Maiden’s gesture not only sets the tone for the tour but raises the bar for artistic respect, collaboration, and legacy in rock history. With both bands still commanding arenas and generations of fans, The Metal Crusade: Legacy United Tour 2026 isn’t just a tour — it’s a testament to the enduring soul of metal.

Brace yourselves. The beasts have joined the horsemen.