Metallica in Zurich
27.05.2026 Letzigrund stadium
Not all people know about special connection of Metallica and Zurich, that’s why it was one of the most interesting cities to catch them.
Metallica came to play in Zurich at one of the hottest days in the month, it was over 30 degrees. No surprise there was a lot of emergency vehicles around the venue and also medical points inside of the stadium. This extreme heat, alcohol, excitement and unbelievable amount of gathered fans could lead to some heart attacks. 50 000 people – probably the largest amount of people I’ve ever seen. The whole stadium was packed and tickets were sold out even 1 year before the concert and thus the whole city of Zurich was paralyzed with traffic. Apart of 50 000 lucky fans who managed to get their tickets, there were still many hopefuls cruising near the venue, trying to enjoy the concert from the outside.
It was extremely difficult to reach the concert area, that’s why unfortunately many people missed the first opening act – Knocked Loose.
But right afterwards Gojira performed an incredible show, just a perfect warm up for the one and only – Metallica.
For their M72 world tour Metallica had made fantastic special effects – 8 LED towers, fireworks, a 360 degree stage – it was something special and definitely unforgettable.
Here a few impressions
The 360 degree stage gave a great opportunity for all the fans to see their gods as close as possible. At the center of the stage there was a special pit for the most devoted and crazy fans – the most extreme prices and definitely the most unforgettable experience.
In each city Metallica surprises fans singing some song in local language. This time in Zurich they were singing Alperose song in Swiss German. It sounded very unusual and funny, but fans totally loved it.
Zurich has a special part in Metallica’s hearts. During the show Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield mentioned a few times why it’s so special.
Zurich was the first European city where Metallica ever played. It was back to 1984 when they were opening for Venom in Volkshaus. So, it’s basically like a first love you will always remember.
The last time Metallica played in Zurich was in 2019 in the same Letzigrund stadium, even though James Hetfield mentioned that they haven’t played in Zurich for way too long – since 2009.
Metallica’s members are now all in their early 60s and they stay in fantastic physical shape, which is quite rare for the bands in this age. The power and energy they showed at this performance was really something unbelievable. Feels like that time doesn’t touch them at all.
One interesting thing to mention: Metallica took part in supporting Swiss Red Cross, specifically the Blood Transfusion Service. Zurich was hosting “Metallica week” from 18th to 22nd of May. The main goal was to motivate people helping the healthcare system by donating blood. Each person who participated to this activity would receive a special Metallica t-shirt as a gift. For this occasion the band made a new design – Blood drive 2026 t-shirts.
It was surprising to know that there were a lot of people who came to see Metallica for the very first time. When James Hetfield asked –‘For how many of you this is the first time you see Metallica?’ – Half of the stadium raised their hands. It was much unexpected for both – the band and the rest of the fans. The majority of the audience was an older generation, mostly men. But you could see families with kids, which is always beautiful to see how older fans pass the traditions to the new generation. The band welcomed all newcomers to the Metallica family and invited them to their further concerts. They promised to return to Zurich as soon as they can, since this city always has a particular place in their heart.
