Stereophonics have postponed their forthcoming Cardiff gigs due to the ongoing pandemic. 

The group was due to play the Principality Stadium on December 17 and 18, but the gigs have been pushed to June 2022 amid rising Covid cases. 

Principality Stadium and promoters Kilimanjaro Live wrote in a joint statement: “The Principality Stadium and promoters Kilimanjaro Live are regretfully announcing the postponement of the Stereophonics shows scheduled at the stadium for December 17th and 18th.

“We have been working collaboratively throughout to deliver these shows and have sought clarification from Welsh Government following the latest review on current guidelines and legal requirements around face coverings. 

“Unfortunately, as the threat of new variants emerge and the restrictions in place as an ‘indoor venue’, the shows are impossible to run safely and ensure compliance with government guidelines and Welsh law.”

They concluded: “Our top priority has always been the safety and wellbeing of fans and all staff working at these shows, as well as the ability to deliver an outstanding fan experience.  

“In light of the evolving public health situation, Principality Stadium and Kilimanjaro Live have taken the proactive but difficult decision to postpone the shows to next year on June 17th and 18th.

“We are taking this decision now to ensure fans have the maximum time possible to alter their plans accordingly. 

“We apologise to all fans, artists, and their crews for any inconvenience caused, but we look forward to being back with a ‘We’ll Keep a Welcome’ in June next year.”

The UK has so far recorded over 400 active Omicron cases.

Stereophonics will release their latest album, ‘Oochya!’, featuring the singles Handing On Your Hinges and Do Ya Feel My Love?, in March.

‘Oochya!’, due March 4, is available to pre-order on CD and vinyl.