Manchester Storm are returning to AO Arena for the 2026/2027 season
Manchester Storm was founded just over 30 years ago, playing their first fixtures at the AO Arena and now they’ve returned to the home of ice hockey in Manchester.
It wasn’t long before Manchester Storm became one of British ice hockey’s biggest teams. They were founder members of the Ice Hockey Superleague in 1996 and they smashed the British attendance record in a dramatic clash against rivals Sheffield Steelers during the 1996/1997 season. It’s a record that’s never been beaten.
Now, in a sign of British ice hockey’s growing popularity. Manchester Storm are returning to AO Arena, one of the biggest arenas in the Elite Ice Hockey League with a capacity of 21,000.
It’s a chance for fans and newcomers to the sport to see them in action, back at the place where it all started.
There’s something special about this shift; many of Manchester Storm’s coaches remember their glory days playing ice hockey at the AO Arena.
Now it’s time to resurrect that thrill - Manchester Storm are ready for a massive season in 2026/2027, bringing the drama of the Elite Ice Hockey League back to the city centre.
Further details on fixtures, ticketing and fan events to be announced. Watch this space or sign up to the AO newsletter here
