The Brit Awards, for the first time since their inception in 1977, will be held outside of London. Manchester will host the ceremony in 2026, at the Co-op Live arena on Saturday, February 28th.
This marks a two-year commitment, with the 50th-anniversary ceremony in 2027 also scheduled for the same venue. This follows the Mercury Prize’s relocation to Newcastle this year, marking a significant shift for major UK music events away from London.
Dr Jo Twist, CEO of the BPI (British Phonographic Industry), explained the decision to the BBC, stating, “After nearly 50 years in London, we felt it was time to broaden our reach. Manchester boasts a rich musical heritage and a vibrant support network, including numerous grassroots venues.”
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham hailed the move as a “massive coup,” emphasizing the city’s unparalleled musical history and pledging their full support to ensure the event’s success. The O2 Arena in London has hosted the Brit Awards for the past 15 years.
This year’s awards, dominated by Charli XCX’s five wins, marked a significant moment in the awards’ history. The inaugural Brit Awards (then known as The British Record Industry Britannia Awards) in 1977, celebrating the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, honored music released during her reign and took place at the Wembley Conference Centre.
Since then, the awards have become an annual event, held at various London venues. Co-op Live, already having hosted the MTV Europe Music Awards, is well-equipped to handle such a large-scale event, despite earlier publicized construction challenges. Last year’s EMAs featured notable performers, showcasing the venue’s capabilities.
Manchester’s musical legacy is undeniable. Take That, Robbie Williams, Simply Red, Elbow, The 1975, M People, and The Chemical Brothers all have Brit Award wins under their belts. Aitch’s 2021 win highlighted the city’s talent. While many other iconic Manchester acts have received nominations, the potential for an Oasis reunion tour win in their hometown adds another exciting layer to the 2026 ceremony.
Dr. Twist noted that the categories are constantly reviewed, leaving open the possibility of a Best Live Act category return. Thirty years after Oasis’s breakthrough win, the possibility of another Manchester band’s triumph adds to the anticipation. The Brit Awards’ move to Manchester marks a significant chapter in its history, embracing a new era and celebrating the diverse musical landscape of the UK.
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