Oasis begin their 41-date world tour in Wales—16 years after their infamous split

The Gallagher brothers’ long-anticipated reunion kicks off in the Welsh capital this weekend, ending a 16-year hiatus in spectacular fashion. The Oasis Live 25 tour opens with two sold-out nights at the Principality Stadium on 4 and 5 July, marking the band’s first performance together since 2009.

Fans are already descending on Cardiff in their thousands, with roads closing, trains packed, and local businesses bracing for a tidal wave of footfall. For many, this is more than a gig—it’s a pilgrimage.

The band’s 41-date tour, announced last August, sold out within hours, proving the Gallagher brothers’ bitter feud only fuelled demand. Friday’s opener is expected to draw over 74,000 fans, with similar numbers for Saturday. Cardiff Council has confirmed road closures around the stadium from 12 pm to midnight, while Cardiff Queen Street station will shut at 10 pm, apart from accessible routes and journeys to Cardiff Bay.

When asked why Cardiff was chosen as the launch pad, Liam Gallagher didn’t mince words. “Because Cardiff is the bollox,” he declared on X (formerly Twitter).

The Principality Stadium—usually the domain of Welsh rugby—has hosted global stars from Taylor Swift to Bruce Springsteen, but Oasis’ return promises a different energy: a raucous blend of nostalgia, swagger, and raw Mancunian bravado.

City pubs and venues are already reaping the rewards. Gary Corp, manager of The City Arms, said he expects the concert to “treble if not quadruple” footfall. At Tiny Rebel, events manager Ethan John called the moment “surreal,” comparing the buzz to Swift’s Eras Tour last year.

Doors open at 5 pm, with support from Cast at 6 pm and Richard Ashcroft at 7 pm—the latter a poignant nod to the Britpop era that Oasis helped define. The Gallaghers will take the stage at 8.15 pm, belting out classics like Live Forever, Wonderwall, and Don’t Look Back in Anger until the show ends at 10.30 pm.

The UK and Ireland leg continues through Manchester, London, Edinburgh, and Dublin, before Oasis head to North America, Asia, Australia, and South America. Other support acts include Cage the Elephant, Ball Park Music, and a rotating roster tailored to each region.

Transport for Wales is urging attendees to plan ahead, warning of crowded platforms and long queues. “We’re thrilled to welcome thousands to Cardiff,” said spokesperson Georgie Wills, advising fans to follow signs and stay safe.

As for tickets? The tour is officially sold out, but die-hard fans haven’t given up hope. A recent post on the band’s Oasismynet fan club hinted at last-minute ticket releases once staging is finalised. “Keep an eye on your inbox,” the message read.

Whether this reunion is a one-off or a full rebirth remains unclear. But for now, Oasis are back, the anthems are ringing out, and for one weekend, Cardiff is the centre of the musical universe.

From Liam’s sneering vocals to Noel’s thunderous guitar lines, the Gallaghers are back on the same stage—and Britpop is roaring again.