NME NEWS: Pantera to Join Metallica on Select Dates of the M72 World Tour — Rainbow Summer 2026 Dates Revealed
Heavy metal fans are in for a monumental summer as Pantera have officially confirmed they will join Metallica on select dates of the M72 World Tour, while also unveiling the vibrant “Rainbow” summer 2026 tour dates of their own. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the global metal community, uniting two of the genre’s most powerful names for a series of shows that promise to be nothing short of historic.
Pantera’s involvement in Metallica’s ongoing M72 World Tour adds another layer of intensity to an already massive production. Known for its unique “No Repeat Weekend” format, the M72 tour has redefined large-scale metal touring, and Pantera’s inclusion on select stops is expected to elevate the energy even further. Fans can expect crushing riffs, uncompromising groove, and a celebration of metal legacy that bridges generations.
In a statement shared alongside the announcement, Pantera described the opportunity as “an honor and a statement,” emphasizing the shared history and mutual respect between the two bands. “Metallica have always pushed the boundaries of what metal can be on a global stage,” the band noted. “To share that stage again is something we don’t take lightly.”
Alongside the Metallica dates, Pantera also revealed their Rainbow Summer 2026 Tour, a standalone run that will take them across major cities and iconic festival grounds. The “Rainbow” concept, according to the band, represents unity, resilience, and the broad spectrum of fans who have supported Pantera across decades. While full dates and venues are still being rolled out, early confirmations suggest a mix of stadium shows, open-air festivals, and select headline arena nights.
The summer 2026 tour is being billed as a full-scale Pantera experience, featuring an expansive setlist that honors their classic catalog while showcasing the renewed power of the current lineup. Production upgrades, immersive visuals, and a focus on fan experience are all expected to be central to the tour’s identity.
For fans, the combination of Pantera and Metallica on the same bill is more than just a tour announcement—it’s a cultural moment. Two titans of heavy music, each with their own legacy, coming together to remind the world why metal continues to thrive, evolve, and dominate live stages worldwide.
More details, including full tour dates and ticket information, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.