AVATAR has been confirmed as a support act for METALLICA on the 2026 'M72' world tour.

The Swedish metal band will perform alongside METALLICA during the spring and summer 2026 European leg of the tour.

According to official announcements, AVATAR will play four shows with METALLICA, during which the band will have the opportunity to meet and interact with the heavy metal legends, including frontman James Hetfield.

The tour marks a significant milestone for AVATAR, with band members expressing deep admiration for METALLICA's history and influence on their own musical development.

The support role follows a long-standing influence of METALLICA on AVATAR's sound, which traces its roots to classic acts such as BLACK SABBATH and THE BEATLES, as well as the band's early inspiration from AT THE GATES.

The tour manager for AVATAR has previously worked as a stage manager for METALLICA, providing insight into the logistical challenges of performing on the same stage as one of the world's most iconic metal acts.

AVATAR's frontman Johannes Eckerström emphasized the importance of learning from METALLICA's stage presence and performance approach, particularly the large round stage and the way the band maintains a connection with openers.

The band has also noted that METALLICA has consistently shown respect for the metal community, having opened for SABBATH and Ozzy Osbourne in the past.

AVATAR's tenth studio album, 'Don't Go In The Forest', was released in October via Black Waltz Records.

The announcement builds on the band's established reputation in the metal scene and underscores its growing presence in international tours."