BRIT Awards Move to Manchester for 2026-27 Ceremonies

The BRIT Awards will relocate from London to Manchester for the first time in nearly 50 years, with ceremonies slated for 2026 and 2027 at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena. This move is celebrated as a major milestone for Manchester, recognized for its rich musical heritage that includes iconic acts such as Oasis, The Smiths, and Harry Styles, and is seen as a way to invigorate the awards by connecting them to the city's vibrant cultural scene. The 2026 ceremony will take place on February 28 and be broadcast exclusively on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player. Key figures including Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Sony Music UK & Ireland CEO Jason Iley praised the decision, highlighting Manchester’s thriving music ecosystem and its historical significance in shaping British music. The BRIT Awards’ shift north is also part of a broader effort by the British Phonographic Industry to engage fans across the UK, marking a bold new chapter for the event as it approaches its 50th anniversary. The move follows the Mercury Prize's recent decision to hold its event in Newcastle, signaling a trend of major UK music awards expanding beyond London.