Eric Clapton returns to Cologne: the only concert in North Rhine-Westphalia in 2026!

Eric Clapton returns to Cologne: the only concert in North Rhine-Westphalia in 2026!

Music fans in Cologne can look forward to: Eric Clapton, a legend of blues and rock, is coming to the Lanxess Arena on May 15, 2026 for his only concert in North Rhine-Westphalia. It's his first concert in the city in eight years, appealing to everyone who loves his unforgettable hits like "Tears in Heaven" and "Layla." Ticket presales have already begun, with the Eventim presale starting on October 22nd, 2025 at 10 a.m. and the general presale starting on October 24th, 2025 at 10 a.m.

Clapton, who turns 81 on March 30, 2026, has won an impressive 18 Grammy Awards throughout his career and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times - as a solo artist and for his contributions with the bands The Yardbirds and Cream. The anticipation of his tour underlines the fact that he has influenced generations in his 63 years as a professional musician, and his performances promise high musical quality, accompanied by a first-class live band.

The tour dates

Eric Clapton's upcoming tour includes a total of four concerts in Germany and Belgium. Here are the most important dates:

• 26. April 2026: Sportpalais Antwerpen, Belgien
• 13. Mai 2026: SAP Arena, Mannheim, Deutschland
• 15. Mai 2026: Lanxess Arena, Köln, Deutschland
• 17. Mai 2026: Olympiahalle, München, Deutschland

A view of the Lanxess Arena

The Lanxess Arena has been a sought-after venue since it opened in 1998 and has already seen six performances by Clapton. Other exciting events are also coming up, including concerts by Alexander Marcus in October 2026 and the BAP anniversary concert in December 2026. Maite Kelly is expected in spring 2027.

Fans can look forward to a great concert with selected rarities and new arrangements when Clapton takes the stage. With his virtuoso guitar technique and diverse musical styles, he is sure to take many hearts by storm again. To shorten the waiting time until then, a remastered edition of his 1989 album “Journeyman” will be released on November 21, 2023, containing additional bonus tracks.

Overall, Clapton's Germany tour promises to be a highlight in the 2026 concert year. Don't miss the chance to experience this unique artist live in Cologne - the anticipation is great! Further information can be found on the website of 24rhine, Lanxess Arena and Best Classic Bands.