2026 Line-Up Features Linkin Park and Limp Bizkit as Headliners
Linkin Park, Limp Bizkit, and Guns N’ Roses are gearing up to take the stage as headliners at next year’s Download festival, showcasing a lineup of 90 rock and metal acts at Donington Park in Leicestershire. Alongside these heavy hitters, fans can expect performances from Pendulum, Cypress Hill, Babymetal, and Black Veil Brides, as well as Trivium, Mastodon, Architects, Feeder, and Ash, among others, during the three-day event scheduled for 10 to 14 June.
The inclusion of Linkin Park as the festival’s top act is noteworthy as it marks the first time a female-fronted band will take on this prestigious role since the festival’s inception in 2023. With Emily Armstrong now at the helm as the band’s lead singer, Linkin Park has embarked on a global tour and released new music for the first time since the tragic passing of former frontman Chester Bennington in 2017.
However, the band’s choice to bring in Emily Armstrong as their frontwoman has not been without controversy. Some fans have expressed concerns over her alleged ties to the Church of Scientology and past support for convicted rapist Danny Masterson. Moreover, Chester Bennington’s family has openly criticized the band, with his son, Jaime, accusing them of neglecting his father’s memory and impact. In response, Emily has distanced herself from Masterson, clarifying that she is not seeking to replace anyone within the band, as emphasized by Linkin Park’s founder, Mike Shinoda.
Joining the lineup as a festival headliner for the first time, Limp Bizkit will make their mark at Download next year. Still reeling from the recent loss of founding member and bassist Sam Rivers, who passed away at 48, Limp Bizkit last graced the stage at this year’s Leeds Festival.
Meanwhile, rock legends Guns N’ Roses are currently on a world tour and made a memorable appearance at Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell show in his hometown of Birmingham. Known for its diverse range of musical genres, Download festival prides itself on offering a fusion of rock, metal, punk, emo, hardcore, alternative, and classic rock acts. In a surprising turn, past editions of the festival have even featured pop artists and unexpected guest appearances, such as the Vengaboys in 2024.
Looking ahead to 2026, festival-goers can anticipate an appearance by Dogstar, the band formed by actor Keanu Reeves, adding a unique twist to the festival’s lineup. As Download festival continues to evolve and expand its musical offerings, fans can look forward to an electrifying and diverse experience that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.