The major sporting event heads North in 2026 as the Netball Super League becomes the first sporting final to headline the venue
The Netball Super League (NSL) has today announced that the 2026 Soft & Gentle Grand Final will take place on Saturday, 20th June at Co-op Live, Manchester, making history as netball becomes the first ball sport and the first sporting final to be staged at the UK’s largest arena.
The announcement builds on the success of last year’s Grand Final, which was held at The O2 in London and attracted record-breaking crowds. In a thrilling contest, London Pulse were crowned Champions for the first time in their history, defeating Loughborough Lightning 53– 45 in a landmark occasion for both the League and the sport.
Tickets for the 2026 Soft & Gentle Grand Final will go on sale to members on February 23rd, with general sale opening on March 5th. Fans are encouraged to register their interest via the Netball Super League website to receive priority access, on-sale information and the latest updates.
Reflecting on the announcement, NSL Managing Director, Claire Nelson, said: “Last year’s Grand Final showed just how exciting and compelling this competition has become, with an atmosphere that truly lifted the occasion. Bringing that energy to Co-op Live feels like a natural next step. Netball has always been a sport that builds confidence on and off the court, and hosting our biggest night in such a modern, world-class arena is a powerful statement about the belief, ambition and everyday confidence that defines our league and our players.”
Guy Dunstan, General Manager at Co-op Live, said: “We’re incredibly proud to welcome the Soft & Gentle Grand Final to Co-op Live and to make history by hosting the first sporting final at the arena. Co-op Live was designed to bring people together for unforgettable shared experiences, and this event reflects everything the venue stands for: world-class events, inclusivity, community impact and inspiring the next generation. We can’t wait to see Manchester play host to such a landmark moment for the sport.”
The selection of Co-op Live for the 2026 Soft & Gentle Grand Final builds on the arena’s rapid emergence as a global destination for sport and entertainment, following a programme of major global broadcasts across music and sport. Located on Manchester’s Etihad Campus, the 23,500-capacity venue the UK’s largest arena as quickly established itself as a frontrunner for visitor experience.
The Soft & Gentle Grand Final will also place netball at the forefront of a new era of major indoor sporting events, with Co-op Live setting a new benchmark for modern, sustainable venues. The arena operates entirely by renewable electricity, with features including rooftop solar panels, rainwater harvesting and zero waste to landfill – reflecting Co-op Live’s commitment to creating positive social and environmental impact.
The event forms part of a landmark year for the sport, as England Netball celebrates its Centenary in 2026, marking 100 years of netball inspiring generations of players, fans and communities.
Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure at Manchester City Council, added: “Manchester is a city alive with sport, and we’re thrilled to welcome the Netball Super League Grand Final to our city and to the incredible Co-op Live Arena for the first time. Hosting the Grand Final reflects our long-term commitment to advancing women’s sport, strengthening partnerships with England Netball, and delivering community benefits.
“After an exciting season under the new NSL 2.0 era, we can’t wait to host the two teams who’ll compete for the 2026 championship, where we’re not so secretly hoping Manchester Thunder will be one of them! We look forward to celebrating world-class netball this June and showcasing why Manchester continues to lead the way in sport and unforgettable, inclusive live experiences.”
With thanks to England Netball
