Pete Townshend Withdraws From Clapton's Crossroads Festival

Pete Townshend has been forced to pull out of the upcoming Crossroads Guitar Festival, founded by Eric Clapton, due to ongoing health issues. The two-day benefit concert series is scheduled to take over the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, on September 26th and 27th, featuring a lineup boasting artists like Billy Gibbons, John McLaughlin, and Jimmie Vaughan.

Townshend was slated to join the bill before issuing a statement on September 1st via Clapton’s X account announcing his withdrawal.

Health Issues Force Cancellation

“I’m so sorry to say that due to damage to my left foot, and subsequent issues with my balance, I cannot commit to travel to appear at the upcoming Crossroads Festival in Austin,” Townshend stated in the message. He noted that he had battled to get in shape and wanted desperately to appear, but explained that long flights from London and subsequent jetlag would cause setbacks to his recovery that he cannot afford.

The festival serves as a benefit for the Crossroads Center in Antigua, an education and treatment facility founded by Clapton in 1998 for addiction and related struggles. Demonstrating his ongoing support for the cause, Townshend revealed he will donate $50,000 to the charity through his Double O foundation. “One day I hope I can accept Eric’s invitation to appear with him,” Townshend added. In response, festival organizers shared a message via Clapton’s X account reading, “We love you, feel better and we are so appreciative of your donation.”

Eric Clapton's Crossroads 2026 — Eric Clapton’s Crossroads 2026 banner

Future Plans With The Who

Looking ahead, Townshend mentioned he is focusing on his recovery “so I can work with Roger and The Who in future.” The remark points toward potential upcoming tour dates for the band, following their North American farewell run last year. Reports also indicate the band has reunited with drummer Zak Starkey following rehearsals, after parting ways last year.

The Crossroads Guitar Festival returns for its first installment since stopping in Los Angeles in 2023, marking its first time back in Texas since being held in Dallas in 2019.