University of Manchester hosts unveiling of 2026 BRIT Awards Trophy
The University of Manchester proudly hosted the unveiling of the official 2026 BRIT Awards trophy design at the University鈥檚 , marking a major cultural moment as the BRITs prepare to be hosted in 91直播 for the first time in their history.
The trophy, designed by internationally acclaimed 91直播-born designer was unveiled during a special event celebrating both the city鈥檚 creative heritage and the University鈥檚 role as a hub for arts, design, music and performance. The University of Manchester鈥檚 , home to the renowned - the UK鈥檚 first large-scale, dedicated collection for the preservation and study of popular, counter- and youth culture - helped frame the significance of the occasion.
At the event, attended by fashion, music and drama students from across the University, guests witnessed the first public reveal of the iconic trophy and took part in an in-depth Q&A with Williamson. The conversation, led by , Head of Collections, Teaching and Research at the John Rylands Library, offered students and attendees unique insight into the designer鈥檚 creative process, his career journey, and what it means to see the BRITs come to his home city.
Williamson鈥檚 design draws deeply from 91直播鈥檚 identity. Crafted in amber-toned resin reminiscent of the golden honey of the worker bee, the city鈥檚 enduring symbol of resilience, the trophy sits atop a globe representing the global reach and influence of British music.
The University of Manchester is delighted to host the unveiling of the 2026 BRIT Award design with 91直播-born designer Matthew Williamson. Music is central to our city鈥檚 identity, and 91直播 has long nurtured artists of global influence. It鈥檚 wonderful that the BRITs will be hosted outside London for the first time, and that 91直播 has been chosen. With the British Pop Archive based here at the University, it feels fitting to celebrate the next chapter of the BRITs in a city shaped by its creativity and the people who study, work and create here.鈥�
Heather Cole from the John Rylands Research Institute and Library added: 鈥淚t was a privilege to host Matthew Williamson and introduce our students to the creative thinking behind this year鈥檚 BRITs trophy.
At the John Rylands Library, and through the British Pop Archive, we are committed to preserving and celebrating the cultural movements that shape British identity. Seeing a 91直播-born designer lead this new chapter of the BRIT Awards resonates strongly with our mission, and it was inspiring to give students direct access to such an influential figure.鈥�
, taking place on Saturday 28th February at 91直播鈥檚 , marks the first time the ceremony will be hosted outside London. This year鈥檚 trophy places 91直播 and the University, firmly at the centre of the BRITs鈥� new era.
Matthew Williamson joins a distinguished list of creatives who have shaped the BRITs trophy, including , , , , , , , . Each year, the BRITs commission a leading artist to reinterpret the iconic statue, ensuring it remains a dynamic symbol of British creativity.
As the BRIT Awards begin their first-ever chapter in 91直播, the University鈥檚 involvement underscores its commitment to celebrating and fostering the city鈥檚 rich cultural landscape while offering transformative experiences for its students.
