Acclaimed Dutch guitarist Adrian Vandenberg has announced the cancellation of his upcoming “My Whitesnake Years” U.S. tour. The tour was scheduled to begin on August 3, 2026, in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Vandenberg is receiving hospital treatment for a bacterial infection that medical specialists have advised requires immediate attention before he can resume touring.
In a statement shared on social media, Vandenberg said, “Amigos! Never in my roughly 60 year long career as a touring/ gigging guitar player I had to cancel a show or tour. Not even when in 1987 I had my face totally ripped open in an early morning traffic accident in New York and I still played the show that evening because I absolutely did not want to miss playing a sold out show at the legendary Madison Square Garden.”
“Needless to say I’m really, really sorry to have to announce that I’m strongly urged by the medical specialists involved to not do this upcoming USA tour at this point,” Vandenberg stated. “Right now, it’d be just too short after a bacterial infection that invaded my body and that needs to get taken care of right away. Those creepy bad boys need to get their treacherous asses kicked out of my body asap.”
Vandenberg emphasized that he is receiving expert medical care. His condition is moving in a positive direction, though recovery will require time. His management team and USA Agency, Paramour Group, are already working on rescheduling the tour dates. “I’m in great, very capable expert hands in the hospital and things are fortunately moving in the right direction but, as always, these kind of things will need some time of course. Our management and USA Agency (Paramour Group) are already working on re-scheduling this tour and, of course, you’ll be kept up to date. See you guys soon!” he added.
The cancellation marks a significant moment in Vandenberg’s career. His legendary status in rock music and unwavering commitment to performing have defined his professional identity. Throughout his decades as a professional guitarist, Vandenberg has built a reputation for his dedication to live performances and his connection with audiences worldwide. His willingness to push through adversity to reach fans has made this decision to prioritize his health a notable acknowledgment of the severity of his current medical situation.
Bacterial infections requiring hospitalization represent serious medical conditions. They demand comprehensive treatment protocols and recovery periods. Medical specialists advised against touring to ensure Vandenberg can focus entirely on his recovery without the physical and mental demands of an extensive tour schedule. Such infections can compromise the immune system and require sustained medical monitoring to ensure complete resolution and prevent complications.
The rescheduling of the “My Whitesnake Years” tour will allow Vandenberg the necessary time to fully recover under professional medical supervision. Fans who had purchased tickets for the August dates are expected to receive information about rescheduled performances as details become available through official channels. The tour represents an important part of Vandenberg’s ongoing legacy, celebrating his influential years with Whitesnake and his solo career achievements.
