Lars Ulrich Says Metallica Are Aiming To Return To Australia 'Hopefully Next Year'

Lars Ulrich has revealed Metallica are hoping to return to Australia in 2020 just weeks after calling off a stadium tour of the country that was scheduled to kick off this week. 

In an interview with USA Today, the legendary drummer discussed the cancellation, which came due to frontman James Hetfield returning to rehab, and when the metal icons plan on heading to Australia. 

"[Hetfield's] doing what he needs to; he's in the process of healing himself," Ulrich said.

"I feel bad for everybody down in Australia and New Zealand, but we're excited to get back to full force and come back stronger and healthier than ever. Along the way, there's obviously an occasional bump in the road.

"But it's been an incredible ride, and we're looking forward to getting back down there, hopefully next year."

Ulrich's comments come after Metallica announced they will headline five festivals in the US in 2020, starting at Charlotte's Epicenter Festival in May.

In a statement issued late last month, Metallica informed fans that the Australian tour would not be going ahead.

"We are truly sorry to inform our fans and friends that we must postpone our upcoming tour of Australia and New Zealand," the statement read.

"As most of you probably know, our brother James has been struggling with addiction on and off for many years. He has now, unfortunately, had to re-enter a treatment program to work on his recovery again.

"We fully intend to make our way to your part of the world as soon as health and schedule permit. We’ll let you know as soon as we can."