The BRIT Awards 2026, the 46th edition of the United Kingdom’s most prominent music honors, are scheduled to take place on Saturday, 28 February 2026, at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester. This marks the first time in the event’s history that the ceremony will be staged outside London. The awards are presented by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and celebrate achievements across British and international music released during 2025. Comedian and television presenter Jack Whitehall is set to return as host for the sixth time. Broadcast and streaming details are expected to be announced by the BPI closer to the ceremony date, according to official BRIT Awards communications.
Artist of the Year Nominations at the BRIT Awards 2026
The Artist of the Year category brings together a varied lineup including Dave, Fred Again.., JADE, Lily Allen, Little Simz, Lola Young, Olivia Dean, PinkPantheress, Sam Fender, and Self Esteem. The list combines long-standing figures in British music with artists whose recent work has expanded their creative reach.
Best Breakthrough Artist Shortlist for BRITs 2026
Barry Can’t Swim, Esdeekid, Jim Legxacy, Lola Young, and Skye Newman are nominated for Best Breakthrough Artist. According to the BPI announcement, the category focuses on artists who made a significant impact during the eligibility year.
Mastercard Song of the Year Nominees
The Mastercard Song of the Year nominations include “Blessings,” “The Days (Notion Remix),” “Defying Gravity,” “Azizam,” “Victory Lap,” “Survive,” “Messy,” “Nice To Meet You,” “Man I Need,” “WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!,” “Rein Me In,” and “Family Matters.”
International Song of the Year Selections
International Song of the Year nominees are “Ordinary,” “Pink Pony Club,” “No Broke Boys,” “Sailor Song,” “That’s So True,” “Golden (KPop Demon Hunters),” “Die With A Smile,” “Love Me Not,” “APT.,” “Manchild,” “Undressed,” and “The Fate of Ophelia.”
Group of the Year Contenders
Pulp, Sleep Token, The Last Dinner Party, Wet Leg, and Wolf Alice are recognized in the Group of the Year category.
International Group of the Year Nominees
The International Group of the Year shortlist includes Geese, HAIM, HUNTR/X, Tame Impala, and Turnstile.
Best Alternative/Rock Act at BRIT Awards 2026
Blood Orange, Lola Young, Sam Fender, Wet Leg, and Wolf Alice are nominated for Best Alternative/Rock Act.
Best R&B Act Nominees
The Best R&B Act category features Jim Legxacy, kwn, Mabel, Sasha Keable, and Sault.
Best Dance Act Shortlist
Calvin Harris with Clementine Douglas, FKA twigs, Fred again.. with Skepta and PlaqueBoyMax, PinkPantheress, and Sammy Virji complete the Best Dance Act nominations.
