May 26, 2010 16:00

Damon Albarn wishes Bono 'all the best' as Gorillaz replace U2 at Glastonbury

Albarn's band say Glastonbury will be an "unbelievable experience"

Photo: Andy Willsher

Damon Albarn has spoken about Gorillaz being drafted in to replace U2 as headliners at this year's Glastonbury.

Earlier today (May 26) the band were confirmed to headline the Pyramid Stage on June 25 following the news that original headliners U2 have been forced to pull out following a back injury sustained by frontman Bono.

Speaking of the change in line-up, Albarn paid tribute to the Irish band. "It's a terrible thing for U2," he said. "Glastonbury is magical. Gorillaz will come to life on that stage, but we wish Bono all the best."

Gorillaz co-founder Jamie Hewlett said that, after the band's recent performance at Coachella festival, he is confident of delivering a successful show.

"I wasn't sure how Gorillaz would work in a festival environment, but Coachella was amazing," he said. "I think Glastonbury will be an unbelievable experience for us."

The festival headline appearance will be Damon Albarn's second in as many years, following Blur's show on the same stage in 2009.