There's a small part of me that wants Maiden not to tour in 2026 at all. In the hopes that they can recuperate and write/record a new album - bear in mind they've been on back to back tours around the world since 2022. Or perhaps just a couple of dates in August/September to tease a new album, maybe with a single released..
The thing I worry about is that they're probably not as keen to work on a new record while also having these big world tours still occuring every year. That side of it would get tiring being in your late 60s!
That said, they might be able to fire out an album quickly (2 months to write & record.. June/July) and then a quick rehearsal and then out on the road for 4-5 week max... release album September/October 2026. After that - I'm sure in physical form they have another 3-4 years for sure, but it's also the mental side of it - I'm sure Davey's fingers will legato all the way to the grave but as many have suggested, he might just be done with it mentally. I really hope not. And same for the others of course.
I would still be happy if Maiden did a new album, but also cut their touring back - to make it more 'special' when they did perform live!