Metallica Kicks Off 2026 with a Spectacular Show in Athens

Metallica delivered an electrifying performance at the Olympic Stadium in Athens, Greece, on Saturday night, marking their first show of 2026. The legendary heavy metal band treated fans to a robust sixteen-song set, showcasing their extensive catalog and energizing the crowd with a mix of classic hits and fan favorites.

Set List Highlights

This performance was particularly special, as it was the first time Metallica had played live since their appearance at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 5, 2025. Unlike previous stops on their ongoing M72 World Tour, which typically features two-night stands, the Athens show was a standalone event. This allowed fans to enjoy a concentrated selection of the band’s most iconic tracks.

The night kicked off with a pair of powerful tracks from their 1984 album Ride the Lightning: “Creeping Death” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” As the evening progressed, Metallica showcased songs spanning nine of their eleven studio albums, with notable omissions being 2003’s St. Anger and 2008’s Death Magnetic.

Full Set List

Metallica May 9, 2026 Olympic Stadium Athens, Greece Set List:

• “Creeping Death”
• “For Whom the Bell Tolls”
• “Moth Into Flame”
• “King Nothing”
• “Lux Aeterna”
• “The Unforgiven”
• “Fuel”
• “Zorba’s Dance” and “De Horas Pouthena” (Kirk and Rob)
• “Fade to Black”
• “Wherever I May Roam”
• “Nothing Else Matters”
• “Sad But True”
• “One”
• “Seek & Destroy”
• “Master of Puppets”
• “Enter Sandman”

Special Moments During the Show

As is customary, bassist Robert Trujillo and guitarist Kirk Hammett took a moment to pay tribute to Athens through a unique spotlight segment. This included a rendition of “Zorba’s Dance” from the classic 1964 film Zorba the Greek, followed by “De Horas Pouthena,” a track from the experimental Greek metal band Trypes.

Looking Ahead

Following their Athens show, Metallica will continue their European tour throughout May and June, featuring a mix of one and two-night performances across various cities. Fans in the United States can look forward to seeing the band return on October 1, when they embark on 24 sold-out dates at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

Conclusion

Metallica’s first show of 2026 in Athens was a testament to their enduring legacy in the heavy metal genre. The combination of a hit-packed set list and a unique tribute to the host city created an unforgettable experience for fans. As they continue their tour across Europe and eventually return to the U.S., anticipation builds for what else this iconic band has in store.

FAQs

When did Metallica last perform before the Athens show?

The last performance before the Athens show was at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 5, 2025.

What songs were omitted from the set list in Athens?

The songs omitted from the set list were “St. Anger” and “Death Magnetic.”

Where will Metallica perform next?

Metallica will perform across Europe in May and June, followed by a return to the U.S. for shows at the Sphere in Las Vegas starting October 1.

Did Metallica perform any local Greek music?

Yes, during their spotlight segment, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo performed “Zorba’s Dance” and “De Horas Pouthena.”