THE 2026/27 SEASON SEES LANDMARK MOMENT FOR UK ICE HOCKEY AND A HOMECOMING FOR THE MANCHESTER TEAM

 

Manchester, UK – Manchester Storm is set to make a historic return to the AO Arena for the 2026/27 season, marking a powerful homecoming that reconnects the club with its roots and marks a new era for ice hockey in the city. 

 

The move comes at a time of unprecedented momentum for the club, who reached the play-off finals in April for the first time in 24 years, an achievement that reflects both their on-ice success and the sport’s rapid growth across the UK. 

 

Founded back in 1995 as a tenant of the then newly-opened Manchester Arena, the original Manchester Storm quickly became one of British ice hockey’s most iconic teams. In their inaugural season, the Storm secured the First Division championship before becoming founding members of the Ice Hockey Superleague in 1996. 

 

Storm’s early years were defined by success and spectacle. The club claimed the league championship title in the 1998–99 season and lifted the Autumn Cup the following year. During this golden era, AO Arena became synonymous with record-breaking crowds and electric atmospheres. A standout moment came during the 1996–97 season, when 17,245 fans packed the venue for a clash against rivals the Sheffield Steelers, setting a British attendance record that still stands today. 

 

Now, nearly three decades on, the Storm’s return represents a full-circle moment not just for the club, but for the people behind it. Members of the current coaching staff were part of that original era as players, bringing with them an emotional connection to the arena and its legacy. 

 

This homecoming also arrives amid a wider rise in the popularity of ice hockey across England. Increased grassroots participation, growing fan engagement, and rising visibility of the Elite Ice Hockey League have all contributed to the sport’s resurgence. Manchester Storm’s return to a major arena stage is expected to further accelerate that growth, attracting new fans and re-energising its long-time supporters. 

 

AO Arena, one of the UK’s largest and most iconic live entertainment venues, will once again transform into a fortress for ice hockey in the city, reviving the spirit of the ‘Storm Shelter’ for all generations to enjoy.  

 

Further details on fixtures, ticketing, and fan experiences for the 2026/27 season will be announced in due course. 

 

Gemma Vaughan, AO Arena’s General Manager:

 

“We’re proud to welcome Manchester Storm back to AO Arena, it’s a move that strengthens our venue’s position as a world-class sports and entertainment hub, as well as the UK’s largest indoor sporting arena.

 

This homecoming will bring new energy to the city centre, driving footfall for local bars, restaurants, and hotels while creating more opportunities for fans to engage with the sport.

 

It’s a major step forward for ice hockey’s growth in the UK and a brilliant moment for Manchester’s already thriving sporting community.”

 

Emma and Ryan Finnerty, representing the Manchester Storm ownership group: 

“This is a major milestone for our partnership group and a vision we’ve worked towards for some time. Returning Manchester Storm to the AO Arena is a proud moment for everyone involved. 

  

It’s about giving our fans a premier stage in the heart of the city and delivering an outstanding live experience. 

  

Together with our leadership team and Canadian partners, our ambition is clear — not just to compete, but to lead in the Elite Ice Hockey League and beyond. 

  

This marks the start of an exciting new era for the club. Manchester Storm is coming home” 

 

“Today marks a hugely exciting and significant moment for both the Manchester Storm and the Elite League,”

 

added Mark Brooks, Head of Commercial Operations at the Elite Ice Hockey League. 

 

“Moving into the AO Arena reflects the ambition of the team and the continued growth of the League.

 

Manchester is one of the country’s most vibrant sporting cities, and we’re proud to support the Storm as they take this next step and showcase Elite League ice hockey on one of the UK’s most iconic stages.

 

This move will also enhance the experience for visiting teams and supporters, providing a world-class environment that reflects the scale and ambition of the League.”