Speculation over the band's state grew after Zayn Malik's departure earlier this year.

With rumors circulating that One Direction is headed for a hiatus after finishing a tour this autumn and promoting their fifth album, Niall Horan has set the record straight.

Horan said the group is not splitting up but will be taking a break at some point next year. So as not to fuel the fire with the utterance of that B word, he added, "Don't worry though, we still have lots we want to achieve!"

He also teased new material as the group's current world tour continues through October.

Speculation over the band's state grew after Zayn Malik's departure earlier this year. But, most recently, the group has been releasing new material with the new "Drag Me Down" video they shared last week. It's the first single off their fifth album, which is expected in November.

Ok so Lots of rumours going round. We are not splitting up, but we will be taking a well earned break at some point next year

— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) August 24, 2015

Don't worry though, we still have lots we want to achieve ! Can't wait for you to hear all the new music we have for you and to perform

— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) August 24, 2015

Some new songs as the tor continues! Love you all xx

— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) August 24, 2015

*tour I should say

— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) August 24, 2015

Louis Tomlinson chimed in as well afterwards, adding, "We're not going anywhere."

Your support is truly indescribable! It's just a break :) we're not going anywhere !!

— Louis Tomlinson (@Louis_Tomlinson) August 24, 2015

 

This article originally appeared on billboard.com.