Lead singer Biff Byford of the band Saxon undergoes emergency procedure, cancels 10 summer 2025 shows

Saxon, the iconic British heavy metal band, has been compelled to call off several upcoming summer shows due to lead singer Biff Byford’s urgent need for a medical procedure. The band revealed that Byford’s health situation demands prompt intervention, leading to a necessary recovery period that will hinder Saxon’s ability to take the stage for the next six weeks. Consequently, ten scheduled performances, including significant festival appearances, have been either axed or rescheduled.

The affected shows encompassed prominent slots at esteemed events such as Wacken Open Air in Germany, Pol’And’Rock Festival in Poland, Summer Breeze in Germany, E Town Rock in Estonia, Area 53 Festival in Austria, and Öland Rock in Sweden, among others. These shows were an integral part of Saxon’s eagerly anticipated summer tour, dedicated to honoring the legacy of British heavy metal.

A representative for Saxon’s management conveyed regret on behalf of the band, emphasizing that the well-being of the group takes precedence over their desire to perform. The band expressed disappointment at being unable to entertain their fans but expressed hope for a prompt return to the stage for scheduled appearances at both the Trutnoff Open Air Festival and the Neuborn Open Air in late August, as well as upcoming tours in Spain, France, and the UK later in the year.

Despite the cancellations, Saxon remains committed to their performance at the Rockharz Festival in Ballenstedt, Germany, scheduled for July 2nd.

The impacted shows include performances at Area 53 Festival in Leoben, Austria, Lokomotivat in Ekilstuna, Sweden, Öland Rock Festival in Borgholm, Sweden, Garden in Linköping, Sweden, Furuvik in Gävle, Sweden, Turbinenhalle 2 in Oberhausen, Germany, Pol’And’Rock Festival in Czaplinek, Poland, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany, E Town Rock in Ekenäs, Finland, and Summer Breeze Festival in Dinkelsbühl, Germany.

Saxon expressed their apologies to fans for any inconveniences caused and requested understanding and patience during this challenging period. The band is actively collaborating with event organizers to explore the possibility of rescheduling these shows and appearances.

Saxon’s devoted fanbase eagerly awaits the return of the band to the live music scene and looks forward to experiencing their electrifying performances once Byford has recuperated from his medical intervention.