Wacken Metal Battle Africa confirmed a late change to the 2026 finals at Sognage, Johannesburg, after Mozambique’s Dark Necropoly decided not to travel to South Africa.
The band had been listed as special guests for the event, but pulled out due to the current political tensions in South Africa. According to the organisers, Dark Necropoly chose not to drive across the border and through the country.
Wacken Metal Battle Africa said they respected the decision and added that they expect the band to return in the future.
Die Gemeente, runners-up in the 2025 edition, were brought in to fill the guest slot. The band played after the line-up draw, helping open the day before the competition sets continued.
