Metallica performs at the Olympic Stadium in Athens

On May 9, 2026, the band Metallica performed at the Olympic Stadium (OAKA) in Athens as the first European stop of their M72 World Tour. The event attracted approximately 80,000 to 85,000 attendees, filling the stadium to watch the band perform on a central 360-degree stage. Opening acts included the bands Knocked Loose and Gojira, with the concert gates opening at 16:00. The Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens monitored the event using seismographs to measure potential micro-vibrations caused by the crowd, a phenomenon known as 'concert quakes.' To accommodate the attendees, local transport authorities extended metro service hours, specifically on Line 1. A portion of the concert's proceeds is designated for the band's charitable foundation, All Within My Hands. James Hetfield arrived in Athens two days prior to the performance. This event marked the band's return to Greece after a 16-year absence.