Iron Maiden to headline Download 2013!

Kerrang! is delighted to announce that IRON MAIDEN will headline the Download Festival 2013.

The metal legends will top the bill on the Saturday of the three-day event, which is confirmed for 14-16 June, 2013, at its usual home of Donington Park.

Maiden's appearance will mark 25 years since they first topped a Donington bill, and will see them bring their Maiden England set, which has been receiving rave reviews following its 34-date US tour this summer.

Frontman Bruce Dickinson says: "We're absolutely over the moon to be headlining Donington again. The idea of returning exactly 25 years later with a show inspired by that same 1988 "Seventh Son" Tour, was too good an opportunity to be missed!"

"We will be bringing a huge new lightshow, stage set, various incarnations of Eddie, plenty of pyro and all kinds of other exciting stuff for the fans," he continued. "And of course treating the fans to lots of their favourite songs from that period! We've had many great times at Donington and there is always a wonderful mix of bands and a really wild crowd who love their metal, all of which makes for a memorable show and fantastic party atmosphere!"

Download organiser Andy Copping said he was "delighted" to welcome Maiden home. "They are without doubt one of the biggest bands in the world and their live shows are legendary. It is sure to be something really special," he stated.

Kerrang! and www.kerrang.com will bring you further announcements on the Download 2013 bill as they are released. Check back shortly for an interview with Bruce about what to expect from their show!

Download 2013 takes place at Donington Park from 14-16 June. Weekend with camping tickets go on sale 9.00am September 28 from www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

Vodafone customers can buy tickets 48 hours before they go on general sale: 9.00am September 26 at www.vodafone.co.uk/vip.

Download RIP ticket packages are on sale now and can be purchased via www.livenationexperience.co.uk or by phoning 0207 009 3484.

Check out our interview with Bruce on the video below: