**Brit Awards Set for Historic Move to Manchester in 2026 and 2027**
The iconic Brit Awards, widely regarded as the high point of the UK music industry’s calendar, will take place in Manchester for the very first time in its near 50-year history. Organisers have confirmed that the annual awards show will relocate from its longstanding home in London to the brand new Co-op Live arena, hosting ceremonies in both 2026 and 2027.
The decision marks a significant shift for the Brit Awards, which has spent more than four decades celebrating British music talent in the capital. The forthcoming 2026 ceremony is scheduled for Saturday 28th February and will once again be broadcast across the ITV network, including ITV1, digital service ITVX, STV and STV Player, ensuring the event’s continued reach to millions across the UK.
Industry insiders consider this move a milestone moment for Manchester, a city known globally for its musical heritage and a vibrant creative scene. Greater Manchester’s Mayor, Andy Burnham, described this decision as a “massive coup” for the region. Speaking shortly after the announcement, he highlighted the city’s illustrious musical past, which has given rise to world famous acts and played host to major concerts throughout its recent history.
Mayor Burnham added, “After 48 years, it’s thrilling to see this prestigious event launch a new chapter right here. Greater Manchester’s reputation as a hub for musical innovation and new talent is well established. We’re determined to make the Brit Awards’ arrival a truly memorable occasion and to demonstrate that the organisers made the right choice.”
The Brit Awards are overseen by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), which acts as the trade body for the UK music industry. A noteworthy detail in this year’s announcement is that Sony Music UK will assume stewardship of the awards for the next three years, with their involvement helping to facilitate the high-profile move to Manchester.
Jason Iley, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music UK & Ireland, emphasised the positive energy surrounding the decision: “This is an inspiring new era for the Brit Awards. Manchester, birthplace of so many pioneering and influential musicians, will bring a fresh dynamic to the show and strengthen the Brit Awards’ tradition of supporting world-class musical talent.” He also praised the new Co-op Live arena, a cutting-edge entertainment venue, as the perfect setting for the awards’ new home.
The Brit Awards’ principal sponsor remains Mastercard, who are now entering their 28th year of support for the event. Their longstanding association reflects the enduring cultural significance of the Brits within the music sector and beyond.
The 2025 Brit Awards, held at London’s O2 Arena, saw Charli XCX as the standout winner, taking home five trophies including the coveted Album of the Year for her sixth album, “Brat”. International winners included US artists Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan, with Carpenter collecting the Global Success Award and Roan recognised for International Song of the Year.
The Co-op Live arena, which opened its doors in May 2024 after a number of delays, is now the largest indoor venue in the country, offering seating for up to 23,500 guests. British band Elbow inaugurated the new venue, and subsequent months have welcomed acts such as Sir Paul McCartney and Charli XCX, further bolstering Manchester’s reputation as a premier live music destination.
As the Brit Awards gears up for its Manchester debut, anticipation and excitement are mounting both within the industry and among music lovers. The move not only underlines Manchester’s ongoing significance in the UK’s musical landscape, but also signals the Brit Awards’ commitment to evolving and embracing the country’s rich and diverse regional cultures.
With two years to prepare, Manchester is poised to demonstrate why it deserves the title of UK capital of music and culture, setting the stage for a bold new era in Brit Awards history.