Brit Awards to leave London for Manchester after 48 years

The Brit Awards will leave London for Manchester in a historic change, with the ceremony set for February 28, 2026. This shift ends a 48-year tradition of holding the awards in the capital, with the last 15 ceremonies occurring at the O2 Arena. BPI CEO Dr. Jo Twist emphasized the need to reach music fans throughout the UK, pointing to Manchester's vibrant musical ecosystem as a key factor in the decision. Mayor Andy Burnham described the relocation as a major win for the city, promising to highlight its rich musical history.

The Co-op Live arena, which has hosted significant events like the MTV Europe Music Awards, will serve as the venue. This move aligns with a broader trend of relocating major music events, as seen with the Mercury Prize's recent announcement to take place in Newcastle. The Brit Awards, originally established in 1977, have evolved significantly, transitioning from the British Record Industry Britannia Awards to a major annual event. With a two-year deal in place, the 2027 ceremony will also occur at the same venue, coinciding with the awards' 50th anniversary.