The BBC Introducing Stage at Reading & Leeds Festival will be axed after 18 years, marking a significant shift for the long-running event. Since its inception in 2008, the stage has served as a vital platform for emerging artists, with roughly 70% of the acts on this year’s line-up having performed there at some point in their careers.

The decision comes as part of a massive staging and arena overhaul, which organizers have described as the most extensive in the history of the festivals. Both Little John’s Farm in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds will feature up to six stages, including a rebranded Main Stage known as The Grid, alongside new additions such as The Gallery and The Warehouse.

While the BBC Introducing stage is being removed, Festival Republic has stated that they remain committed to championing new talent, noting that the new Canopy stage will serve as the primary home for breaking acts. A BBC spokesperson confirmed that while the stage at Reading is being retired, they are exploring future collaborations with the event and will continue to host BBC Introducing stages at other festivals across the UK this summer.

Festival Republic boss Melvin Benn recently spoke to NME regarding the evolution of the event. “The whole stage change and the presentation of the way we’re making those stage changes, it’s made me as excited about Reading & Leeds as I’ve ever been,” Benn said. “This really is the next phase of Reading & Leeds festivals.”

Benn also reflected on the festival’s role in artist development, noting that many of this year’s headliners—including Florence + The Machine, Charli XCX, Dave, and Raye—honed their craft on smaller stages before reaching the top of the bill. The festival, which has also seen legendary performances from artists like Ed Sheeran and The 1975, is currently preparing for its upcoming edition, which runs from August 27 to 30.