Sir Elton John returned to the Estadio Banorte (formerly Estadio Azteca) on Friday (Oct. 2), 34 years after his debut at the iconic venue in Mexico City. The British legend reunited with his local fans for the first time in 14 years during the first of two shows that mark the conclusion of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, which began in 2018.
“Good evening, Mexico. I’m so happy to be here tonight because I didn’t come here on my Farewell Yellow Brick tour [before] because of COVID,” said the 79-year-old pianist and songwriter to an audience of over 60,000 people (according to organizers), made up mostly of fans from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s generations.
“I wanted to do these last two shows to say thank you for all the love and support you’ve given me for so long,” added the star, wearing an elegant white suit and red glasses. “It means so much to be here in Mexico City to play my final two shows, OK? Let’s have a great time!”
Fans of the “Rocket Man” came to the affair in colorful outfits to celebrate each of the iconic eras that have made John one of the most important singer-songwriters in contemporary music. Sequined suits, multicolored glasses, colorful fur coats and platform shoes filled the venue, despite the rain that fell over the southern part of the city.
The two-hour show featured a 24-song setlist, including classics like “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding,” “Bennie and the Jets,” “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues,” “The One,” “Philadelphia Freedom,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Honky Cat” and “Rocket Man,” the latter being one of the most anticipated by his fans.
Elton John’s two performances at Estadio Banorte, the Mexican hub for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, represent a heartfelt celebration honoring both the artist and a city that has preserved his legacy and celebrated his music over the years.
Below, the five best moments from his first Farewell Yellow Brick Road concert in Mexico City.
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The Final Liftoff of the “Rocket Man”
Undoubtedly, one of the songs most eagerly awaited by both longtime and new fans was “Rocket Man” — John’s first pop hit, inspired by a 1951 Ray Bradbury story — which featured an extended version for the show, including a piano outro lasting nearly four minutes. The performance drew an ovation from a moved and nostalgic crowd, who for a few minutes felt as though they were traveling into space.
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“Crocodile Rock,” Mexican-Style
Before performing another of his great classics, “Crocodile Rock,” a message from Elton John was projected on the screens announcing that the song was dedicated to his fans. The real surprise, however, came when images of people of all ages appeared wearing traditional Mexican regional costumes, the Mexican national soccer team jersey and shirts bearing the name “Mexico,” while the venue was bathed in green, white and red lights — the colors of the Mexican flag.
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Marilyn Monroe’s “Candle in the Wind”
The song John wrote in memory of Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe in 1973 — and later reimagined to bid farewell to his dear friend Lady Di, Princess Diana — was also included in the setlist in Mexico, creating an emotional and tender moment that moved much of the audience. Images of the actress appeared on the large screens, showing her posing for the cameras in lingerie and exuding the sensuality and beauty that made her a legend.
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A Rock ‘n’ Roll Dose With “Bennie and the Jets”
This ’70s hit brought a rock-and-roll touch to the evening, with John playing the piano in a fearless, majestic style and fans applauding every note. The moment became a masterclass in virtuosity and musical elegance that only the “Rocket Man” can deliver.
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“Cold Heart” With Dua Lipa On Screen
Another of the night’s most anticipated songs — especially among younger generations — was “Cold Heart,” which got the entire venue dancing, without exception. With British superstar Dua Lipa (with whom the song was originally recorded) projected on the screen, the audience sung the song at the top of their lungs, reluctant to accept that the concert had come to an end.
