Rod Stewart says Elton John farewell tour is 'dishonest' and 'stinks of selling tickets'

British rock singer said he had no plans to announce a retirement and would just 'fade away'

Rod Stewart has branded Elton John's upcoming farewell tour "dishonest", claiming it "stinks of selling tickets".

John announced his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour in January, which will take place over three years and conclude with his final ever shows in 2021.

But speaking on US chat show Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen, Stewart said: "I did email her [Elton] and said, 'What, again dear?' And I didn't hear anything back!"

He added: "If I retire, I won't make an announcement. I'll just fade away. I don't think this is a big deal, it stinks of selling tickets."

Fellow guest Cyndi Lauper defended John and said it was "not a bad idea", but Stewart replied: "It's dishonest. It's not rock and roll."

John has made it clear to fans that this will be his final show, stating "I'm not Cher" in reference to the singer's tendency to return to live shows after supposed "farewell" tours.

Stewart later said in the interview that he understood why John had become irritated by a fan who kept touching his piano, after the performer invited a group onto the stage.

"I don't mind it. I love people coming up on stage, it's a laugh. But can see why he was pissed off with it," Stewart said. "I've had people come on stage and nearly had my teeth knocked out!"