U2 have confirmed that they are to play a headline slot at this year's Glastonbury festival.
It's been the worst kept secret in British music. U2 were due to play last year's Glastonbury festival but after frontman Bono succumbed to a back injury the band were forced to pull out of the Worthy Farm event.
Since then, the Irish rockers have promised to return. Adding a song named 'Glastonbury' to their live set was a statement of intent, with Michael Eavis revealing his intention to book the band again.
Now U2 have confirmed their involvement. The Irish band are due to headline this summer's event, joining a bill which includes the previously announced headliners Coldplay and pop icon Beyonce.
Guitarist The Edge broke the news. Appearing on a video screen at the NME Awards, the Irish musician explained that U2 were set to fulfil a promise they made to fans last year and return to Glastonbury.
"Congratulations to Michael and Emily (Eavis) and the rest of the team for the continued success of Glastonbury," he said. "It's more a way of life than a festival."
I have to say there is something really special and iconic about that stage. So, we're all looking forward to coming back to pick up where I left off," he said. "U2 will be playing on June 24. And we're so excited to get to play in front of the world's greatest festival audience. We'll see you there!"
Long since sold out, the news has split Glastonbury fans. U2 were not a popular choice to headline last year, and with Coldplay and Beyonce - both commercial acts - set to headline many are arguing that Glastonbury has shifted its priorities.
Whereas previously the festival would have its own unique identity, the bill now resembles many other summer events.
Glastonbury is set to run between June 22nd - 26th.
