Rod Stewart delays US show due to a medical procedure

Rod Stewart has delayed a US concert with only hours to spare because of a medical issue.

The 81 year old singer was expected to take the stage at the Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Sunday, August 9. The show formed part of his ongoing ‘One Last Time’ tour across North America.

Only a few hours before the venue was due to open, concert organisers released an update announcing that the performance could not take place as scheduled.

“Due to an unforeseen but minor medical procedure that required prompt attention, Rod Stewart’s performance tonight in Cincinnati has been postponed,” the statement explained. “Rescheduling is currently underway, with additional information to follow on Tuesday.”

Organisers also confirmed that “all previously purchased tickets will be honoured for the rescheduled date”. Further information about the replacement show was still unavailable when the announcement was made.

The update ended by reassuring fans: “Rod is expected to make a quick recovery and looks forward to returning to Cincinnati.”

Stewart last performed in Connecticut on Friday, August 7, after completing shows in Virginia and New York State.

His touring schedule currently includes a performance in Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday, August 11, followed by more concerts across the US throughout August and September. The upcoming dates also feature his residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

Earlier in the summer, Stewart briefly stopped a Utah concert and used an oxygen tank after almost fainting on stage. Making light of the situation, he asked the audience: “Would you mind if I sat down for this one?”

That moment came after the singer received criticism for attending a World Cup match and supporting Scotland. He had been seen at the game only hours after calling off a California performance because of health concerns.

At the time, Stewart’s representatives explained that “on the advice of his doctors and following a diagnosis of an acute upper respiratory infection that has resulted in laryngitis, he is unable to take the stage this evening”.

Addressing his supporters directly, Stewart said: “Following treatment, I’m feeling much better, but my voice is not. I’m very disappointed and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience to my fans.”

The singer’s ‘One Last Time’ farewell tour previously included a Legends Slot appearance on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury Festival. Earlier this spring, he suggested that a UK tour in 2027 would “probably” mark the end of his time on the road.

Back in 2024, Stewart announced that he was finished with “large-scale world tours” and described his 2025 arena schedule as his final run of that size. Despite the announcement, he made it clear that he had “no desire to retire”.