BRIT Awards to Leave London for Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena
For the first time in nearly half a century, the BRIT Awards are set to leave the capital – heading north to Manchester in 2026.
The BRIT Awards with Mastercard, one of the UK’s most prestigious celebrations of music, will be held at Manchester’s newly built Co-op Live arena in both 2026 and 2027. The decision marks a significant departure from tradition, with the ceremony having taken place in London since its inception in 1977.
The 2026 event is scheduled for Saturday 28 February and will be broadcast live on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player.
The British Phonographic Industry (BPI), which organises the BRITs each year, described the move as “a bold new chapter” in the event’s history. Co-op Live, which opened in May 2024, is the UK’s largest indoor arena and has already been praised for its state-of-the-art facilities and audience experience.
Manchester, long revered for its musical heritage, is home to a legacy of iconic artists and movements – from the rise of Oasis, The Stone Roses, and New Order, to the influential sounds of Factory Records and the Madchester era. Contemporary acts such as The 1975, Aitch, and Blossoms continue to build on the city’s rich legacy.
Jason Iley MBE, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music UK & Ireland, which will oversee the BRITs from 2026 under a new three-year tenure, said the move to Manchester would “invigorate the show” and reflect the BRITs’ ongoing mission to spotlight “world-class music”.
The decision has been widely welcomed by civic leaders and figures in the music industry.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham called it “a massive coup” for the region. “After 48 years, it is great that this prestigious global event is about to arrive in the UK capital of music and culture,” he said. “We’ll pull out all the stops to show they made the right decision.”
Tim Leiweke, CEO of Oak View Group and co-founder of Co-op Live, added that hosting the BRITs aligned with the arena’s vision to contribute not only to live entertainment, but also youth development and access to music opportunities.
BRITs Legacy to Continue
The BRIT Awards have long been known not only for glitzy performances and surprise moments but also for supporting music education and well-being initiatives. The 2026 and 2027 editions will continue to raise funds through The BRIT Trust, which supports causes including the BRIT School in London and music therapy charity, Nordoff & Robbins.
Dr Jo Twist OBE, CEO of the BPI, called the relocation a celebration of “exceptional musical heritage” and “a great depth of artistic energy” across the UK.
ITV, which has broadcast the BRITs for over three decades, will continue its long-running partnership.
Mastercard, headline sponsor since 1997, also remains on board.
As the BRIT Awards near their 50th anniversary, organisers hope the move north will help redefine the show’s cultural reach – and highlight the breadth of talent emerging from beyond the M25.
