May 24, 2010 – U2 have delayed the second leg of their world tour after lead singer Bono underwent emergency surgery on his back in a Munich hospital, a statement on their website said Friday.

The band was due to kick off the second part of their 360 degrees tour in Salt Lake City in the United States on June 3, but this has been postponed.

Bono, who celebrated his 50th birthday in New York earlier this month, was admitted to a specialist neuro surgery unit after injuring himself during tour preparation training in Germany, the statement said.

“The band were really looking forward to getting back out on the road until the emergency surgery on Bono’s back which took place in Munich today,” manager Paul McGuinness said in an audio message on the website.

“We were due to start rehearsals on Tuesday in Salt Lake City and get the show ready for the next leg. There were going to be some changes, and some new material.

“It’s unfortunate that we’re inconveniencing fans. We will make plans to reinstate the dates as soon as possible.”

Tour promoters Live Nation confirmed the Salt Lake City gig had been postponed, although the following date on June 6 in Anaheim, California, appeared to be going ahead as planned.

Bono will be spending the next few days at Munich hospital before returning home to recuperate, the statement said.

About 400 crew were due to converge on Salt Lake City for the concert but some of them have been told to stay at home, McGuinness said, adding: “We hope to get things resolved as soon as possible.”