Iron Maiden will make the standing area at their Paris concert phone-free as the band records footage for an upcoming Run For Your Lives Tour film.
The one-night-only measure will be in place during the band’s performance at Paris La Défense Arena on 22 June, with fans in the general admission standing section required to lock their phones in Yondr pouches for the duration of the show.
The move is designed to ensure clear footage for the concert film while creating a distraction-free experience for fans on the arena floor.
Iron Maiden confirms phone-free standing area in Paris
The band announced the policy on social media ahead of the concert, stressing that it applies only to the standing section and only for the Paris show.
“Tomorrow’s show at La Défense Arena will use Yondr pouches to make the standing/General Admission floor entirely phone-free while we record the ‘Run For Your Lives’ Tour film. This will enable us to create the optimal viewing experience for our fans on release, and a unique viewing experience for our standing fans in Paris.”
Fans with standing tickets will have their phones secured in locked pouches upon entering the venue.
“If you have a standing ticket, your device will be locked in the pouch on arrival and unlocked when you leave at the end of the night.”
The band also advised attendees to bring physical payment cards for purchases inside the arena.
“Bring a physical payment card to use at the bars and merch stands.”
Emergency access will still be available
Iron Maiden reassured fans that designated areas within the venue will allow access to phones if required.
“There are areas within the arena where you will be able to access your phone for emergencies.”
The band also clarified that fans would keep possession of their devices throughout the event.
“Your pouch will stay with you for the duration of the show – no one else will be handling your device.”
To help minimise delays, attendees have been encouraged to arrive early.
“Head to the venue early to make sure everything goes smoothly.”
Policy only applies to one concert
Iron Maiden stressed that the phone-free policy is not being rolled out across the entire tour.
“This is ONLY for the standing area at tomorrow’s show. No other show will use Yondr pouches. This was declared when the tickets went on sale last year.”
The band added that accommodations would be available for disabled fans.
“Adjustments for disabled customers are available with proof of disability. Pouches can be unlocked in designated areas for you to access your phone should you need to.”
Band continues campaign against excessive phone use
The Paris restrictions follow ongoing requests from Iron Maiden management for fans to reduce phone usage during concerts.
Before the launch of the Run For Your Lives Tour, manager Rod Smallwood publicly urged concertgoers to experience the performances without constantly filming.
Following the first shows of the tour, he thanked fans who respected the band’s request.
“A huge thank you to every one of you who kept your phones down, respected the band and your fellow fans, and embraced the show the way it’s meant to be experienced – in the room with us.”
Smallwood said the atmosphere created by engaged fans had a positive impact on the band.
“That was a great boost for us and the band appreciated it greatly. It is so much better when they can see you unencumbered and that drives them on without that distraction.”
He also had a message for those who ignored the request.
“For the selfish few that didn’t and just had to keep videoing … I wish you nothing but a very sore arm!”
Celebrating 50 years of Iron Maiden
The Run For Your Lives Tour marks 50 years since Iron Maiden formed in 1975.
Led by Bruce Dickinson and bassist-founder Steve Harris, the band has used the anniversary tour to celebrate its legacy while encouraging fans to enjoy concerts in a more traditional way.
Smallwood previously explained that the band’s preference for limited phone use reflects the spirit of the anniversary shows, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the performance rather than viewing it through a screen.
