When Stereophonics announced their two‑night stint at Principality Stadium in Cardiff for July 11‑12 2025, fans answered a collective “yes.” The stadium, a 74,500‑seat arena on Westgate Street, will also welcome Oasis on July 5 2025, with Richard Ashcroft and the group Cast joining as support. The gigs mark the Welsh rock band’s fifth appearance at the venue, a milestone noted by frontman Kelly Jones, who recalled attending the Rolling Stones there in 1987.
Background: Principality Stadium’s Rise as Wales’ Premier Concert Venue
Opened in 2009, Principality Stadium quickly shifted from a rugby stronghold to a multi‑purpose arena capable of hosting crowds the size of a small city. Its location on Westgate Street means it’s a stone’s throw from Cardiff’s train station, the historic Castle, and a handful of night‑life hotspots such as the Utilita Arena and Tramshed. In the last decade the venue has logged over 30 major music events, from pop megastars to heavy‑metal juggernauts, turning the capital into a European tour‑stop of choice.
Local authorities have invested heavily in transport upgrades—extra bus lanes, a dedicated shuttle to the stadium, and a temporary pedestrian bridge during peak evenings. The result? A smoother flow for the roughly 100,000 fans expected over the three 2025 dates.
Stereophonics’ "Stadium Anthems Summer 2025" Tour Details
The Welsh band’s itinerary starts in Belfast’s Belsonic on June 19, then hops across the Irish Sea to Dublin’s St. Anne’s Park, Cork’s Virgin Media Park, London’s Finsbury Park, Huddersfield’s John Smith’s Stadium, and Glasgow’s Bellahouston Park. Each stop has sold out within weeks, a testament to the band’s resurgence after a three‑year touring hiatus.
Kelly Jones explained the Cardiff shows are “a homecoming in the truest sense.” He also highlighted the inclusion of Blossoms as a special guest, a partnership born from a shared love of 90’s Brit‑pop. "From seeing the Stones at the stadium in 1987 with my big brothers to then playing it for the fifth time to the Welsh people who have held us in their hearts all these years means the world to me," Jones said during a press conference at the venue.
Numbers paint a picture: the ticket‑pre‑sale hit 45,000 in the first 48 hours, and secondary‑market prices are hovering around £85‑£115, reflecting strong demand. The setlist is expected to blend classics like “Dakota” with fresh cuts from Jones’s solo project Inevitable Incredible, which peaked at #6 on the UK Albums Chart.
Oasis Live ’25 Tour: What to Expect
Oasis, fronted by the iconic Liam Gallagher (not to be confused with the late Noel), is riding a wave of nostalgia after a successful arena run in the UK and Europe. Their July 5 stop is billed as part of the “Oasis Live ’25 Tour,” with a line‑up that includes Richard Ashcroft and Cast, both of which bring a distinct 90s flavor to the bill.
Industry insiders predict a set spanning early hits like “Supersonic” to newer material from the band’s 2023 album, which landed at #7 on the charts. Ticket sales have already crossed the 50,000‑mark, and the venue’s sound engineers have promised “stadium‑grade acoustics” after a recent upgrade to the main PA system.
Security measures are being tightened after the 2024 Taylor Swift concert, with additional bag‑checks and a visible police presence. Organisers say these steps are “precautionary, not punitive,” aiming to keep the atmosphere festive.
Economic and Cultural Impact on Cardiff
Economists estimate each of the three 2025 concerts could inject roughly £12 million into the local economy. Hotel occupancy rates in the city centre are expected to climb to 96 percent during the concert week, and restaurants along St. John’s Street have already reported a 40 percent surge in reservations.
Beyond dollars, the events reinforce Cardiff’s cultural clout. The city has long been a music‑making hub, from the Manic Street Preachers to the modern indie surge. Hosting legacy acts like Stereophonics and Oasis cements its reputation as a destination where heritage meets contemporary buzz.
Mayor Huw Thomas remarked, “These shows are a celebration of Wales’ talent and its ability to draw world‑class artists. We’re proud to showcase Cardiff on the global stage.”
What’s Next: Upcoming 2026 Shows
While fans are still buzzing from the 2025 line‑up, the stadium’s calendar already hints at another blockbuster year. Metallica’s “M72 World Tour” is slated for June 28 2026, with French metal heavyweights Gojira and hardcore act Knocked Loose providing support. Take That, The Script, and Belinda Carlisle are also penciled in for mid‑June 2026 dates.
Looking ahead, the venue’s management says they’re exploring a partnership with a major streaming platform to broadcast select concerts, potentially opening a new revenue stream and expanding the stadium’s reach beyond physical attendees.
For those eager to secure tickets, the official website (https://www.principalitystadium.wales) offers an e‑zine subscription that sends real‑time updates on ticket releases, presale codes, and exclusive merchandise drops.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get tickets for the Stereophonics shows?
Tickets are sold through the stadium’s official portal and accredited partners such as Ticketmaster. A pre‑sale window opens a week before the general release for members of the Stereophonics fan club, after which seats go on sale to the public. Expect price tiers ranging from £55 for standard standing to £180 for premium front‑row packages.
What transport options are available on concert days?
Cardiff Central railway station is a five‑minute walk from the stadium. Dedicated shuttle buses run every 15 minutes from the city centre, and extra night‑time services on the local bus network are scheduled for concert evenings. Parking is limited, so public transport is strongly recommended.
Will there be any age restrictions for the Oasis concert?
The Oasis show is open to all ages, but anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Security will check IDs for anyone appearing over 18, as the venue serves alcohol in designated areas.
What impact will the concerts have on local businesses?
Hospitality venues report a 30‑45 percent uplift in sales during concert weeks. Hotels near the city centre typically achieve full occupancy, and nearby pubs see longer opening hours to accommodate fans. The city council expects a boost in tourism‑related tax revenue of up to £5 million.
What safety measures are being implemented for the 2025 events?
Organisers have hired additional crowd‑control personnel, installed extra CCTV cameras, and introduced contact‑free entry points. Bag checks will be mandatory for all attendees, and medical stations staffed by NHS volunteers will be positioned at each major entrance.