While Kiko Loureiro recently announced on Instagram that he extended his hiatus from Megadeth into 2024, Dave Mustaine revealed who would fill in for him during the upcoming shows, supporting the latest album, ‘The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead!,’ on X.
Loureiro had previously taken a break from the band’s ‘Crush The World’ tour last September for undisclosed family matters. In the new statement he shared, the guitarist explained:
“In September, I had to step away from the US leg of the tour for family reasons. Looking ahead, during 2024, we anticipate an even heavier touring schedule for Megadeth. After thorough reflection and discussions with Dave Mustaine and Megadeth’s management, we have collectively agreed that it is the right move to extend my absence. I don’t want to hinder any of the band’s plans or the hard work of all the incredible people involved in the tour.”
The Guitarist’s Replacement
When Loureiro first stepped away from Megadeth, Wintersun’s Teemu Mäntysaari replaced him for the rest of the tour’s 2023 shows. With the recent announcement, Mustaine confirmed that Mäntysaari will continue playing with the band during their 2024 tour dates:
“We have had many conversations with Kiko about this, and they have all been very positive. Kiko is going to remain on an extended leave of absence due to our heavy touring commitments next year, and we are going to continue to move forward with Teemu Mäntysaari as the guitar player for Megadeth.”
No exact date has been given for when Loureiro might return to Megadeth.
The Upcoming Shows
The 2023 leg of Megadeth’s ‘Crush The World’ tour wrapped up on October 6 with a performance in Sacramento, California. The band is set to go on touring on April 6, 2024, starting in Lima, Peru.
This upcoming 10-date tour will end on April 27 in Monterrey, Mexico. After that, Megadeth is scheduled to play at Hellfest in France on June 27.
Official statement from @DaveMustaine and Megadeth. pic.twitter.com/DivNwheOWP
— Megadeth (@Megadeth) November 21, 2023