Franz Ferdinand in Leeds: Door times, bag policy, prohibited items & what could the Scottish giants perform?

Known for their razor-sharp riffs and dancefloor-ready rhythms, the Glasgow outfit arrives in the city tomorrow evening (February 25) as part of a major UK tour that is already drawing rave reviews for its high-octane energy and "feral" crowd reaction.

The tour comes in direct support of their sixth studio album, The Human Fear, which was released on January 10 via Domino Records. Recorded at AYR Studios in Scotland and produced alongside Mark Ralph, the album finds the band at their most immediate and melodic, blending the art-school edge of their early days with fresh, unapologetically pop-oriented hooks.

While The Human Fear explores deep-rooted anxieties, the live experience is anything but fearful.

Fans can expect a ‘statically electric’ atmosphere as the band navigates a 19-song setlist that weaves these new works into a tapestry of anthems.

For many, it is a chance to see the new-look lineup - including members Audrey Tait and Dino Bardot - solidify their place in the band’s unquestionably living legacy.

Support for the show comes from Bristol-based group, Home Counties; an emerging indie-post-punk outfit known for their high-energy, socially conscious lyrics and uplifting live performances.

For Leeds locals, the return to the O2 Academy Leeds is a significant homecoming for a band that has a long, storied history with the city’s music scene.

Whether you are there for the nostalgia of Take Me Out or the propulsive pulse of their new single Night or Day, Wednesday night promises to be a masterclass in precision-drilled indie-rock swagger.

What time are the doors opening for Franz Ferdinand in Leeds?

Doors to Franz Ferdinand’s show at the O2 Academy Leeds are set to open at 7pm, with a strict venue curfew set for 11pm, meaning the Scottish giants should be off the stage by then.

Support at these shows usually begins approximately 45-60 minutes after doors open, meaning Home Counties should be on stage by 7:45/8pm.

What is the bag policy at the O2 Academy in Leeds?

The O2 Leeds Academy is encouraging fans to avoid bringing bags where possible. If you do need one, keep the following in mind:

• Large Bags: Rucksacks and large bags are strictly prohibited.
• No Storage: There are no facilities at the venue to leave luggage or large bags.
• Small Bags Only: Only one small bag is permitted per person.
• Maximum Dimensions: Your bag must not exceed A4 size: 28.7cm (H) x 21cm (W) x 15cm (D).

If you do have to bring a bag, there are several storage facilities from Snatcher across the city available to prevent blushes at the door.

Following the standard O2 Academy Leeds safety protocol, the following items are likely to be confiscated at the door:

• Professional Cameras: Recording equipment or cameras with detachable lenses.
• Selfie Sticks: And other similar telescopic poles.
• Outside Food/Drink: Bottles, cans, or food purchased outside the venue.
• Illegal Substances: Including ‘legal highs’ and drug paraphernalia.
• Weapons: Or anything that could be considered a weapon (including sharp objects).

The O2 Academy Leeds operates a strict Challenge 25 policy at all bars within the venue, meaning if you are lucky enough to look under 25, you will be asked to prove that you are at least 18 years old to purchase alcohol. Make sure to bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driving license) if you plan on grabbing a pint - and original documents are allowed only, no photocopies or photos.

Those attending the show should be aware that the event is strictly for those aged eight and over. If you are planning to be in the standing stalls, you must be at least 14 years old, while those under 14 are required to be seated in the balcony and accompanied by an adult over 18 at all times.

Ultimately, any attendee under the age of 14 must have a guardian over 18 with them throughout the duration of the event.

Are there tickets left to see Franz Ferdinand in Leeds?

Tickets for the show have now reached the resale markets on Ticketmaster, so for those who want a last-minute night out midweek in the city, you are in luck.

Prices vary significantly depending on the section and the type of ticket:

• Balcony Unreserved Standing: Resale tickets are currently starting at £40.25, while official full-price tickets (where available) are listed at £45.45.
• Stalls Unreserved Standing: Verified resale tickets for the main floor are currently priced around £41.40.
• Reserved Seating (Balcony): For those looking for a specific spot, reserved seating in Row H is available via resale for £53.10.

Alternatively, if you’re in the city centre, you can visit Jumbo Records or Crash Records and pick up tickets directly over the counter (while tickets last.)

What has Franz Ferdinand been playing on the road recently?

We only have to go back to their most recent show last Sunday (February 22) to discover what Franz Ferdinand have been performing on the road as part of their tour.

According to Setlist.FM, the band performed the following set during their performance at the National Stadium in Dublin, Ireland.

• The Dark of the Matinée
• Walk Away
• Night or Day
• No You Girls
• Do You Want To
• Audacious
• 40'
• Build It Up
• Evil Eye
• Jacqueline
• Black Eyelashes (Jokingly introduced as "Smells Like Teen Spirit")
• Michael
• Love Illumination
• Take Me Out
• Outsiders

Encore:

• Ulysses
• Hooked
• Evil and a Heathen (Followed by band introductions)
• This Fire