The BRIT Awards are set to leave London for the first time in their history, with Manchester’s Co-op Live confirmed to host the ceremony in 2026 and 2027.
The 2026 ceremony will take place on 28th February, marking a significant shift for the awards show after nearly five decades in the capital. The event will be broadcast on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player.
Sony Music UK will oversee the awards for three years from 2026, having led the initiative to relocate to Manchester. The Chair of the BRITs Committee will be announced at a later date.
“This is a very exciting time for The BRIT Awards,” says Jason Iley MBE, Chairman and CEO of Sony Music UK & Ireland. “Moving to Manchester, the home of some of the most iconic and defining artists of our lifetime, will invigorate the show and build on the BRITs legacy of celebrating and reinvesting in world-class music. Hosting the show in Manchester, with its vibrant cultural history, perfectly captures the spirit and energy of the BRIT Awards.”
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, adds: “For The BRIT Awards to move out of London is a massive coup for Greater Manchester. After 48 years, it is great that this prestigious global event is about to arrive in the UK capital of music and culture. Greater Manchester has an unparalleled music heritage known around the world, and this summer will play host to some of the biggest gigs on the planet. That was only made possible by our strong commitment to new talent and giving emerging artists the opportunities to make their name.”
The awards will continue to raise funds for The BRIT Trust, supporting the BRIT School and music therapy charity Nordoff & Robbins. Mastercard remains the headline sponsor for their 28th year, while ITV continues as the official broadcaster for their 33rd year.
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