British Arena set to wow Sunderland as interest grows for multi-use venue

New name, mockups and behind-the-scenes images revealed with discussions underway for naming rights and sponsorship ahead of summer opening

Assets

Sunderland, March 26th 2026 – The name and exclusive mockup images of the upcoming 15,000 sq.ft British Arena in Sunderland have today been revealed.

The multi-use venue – first announced last summer as the Gaming and Esports Arena – will be able to host live music events, comedy nights, private bookings, broadcasts, games industry, esports events, sports events, premier match day experiences, conferences and lots more.

The arena aligns with the North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ commitment to growing the creative industries, and falls within the Creative Mayoral Development Zone partnership between the Mayor and Sunderland City Council, which aims to accelerate housing and commercial development and attract private and public investment with a particular focus on fueling creative sector growth.

Construction of the British Arena is well underway, as interest grows ahead of its planned opening in summer 2026, with a fly-through video and mockup images of the arena interior, exterior, cafe, social space and arcade area giving a sneak peek into what to expect.

The arena will be equipped with a 200-seat and 400-standing main stage theatre, boasting a 17m LED screen, full 5G capability, broadcast, content and editing studios, retail and hospitality, performance rooms and an expansive 550 sq.m secure outdoor activation space, with a private 2,000 sq.m car park.

There’s also a lounge and bar space which has capacity for 350 standing guests, including an arcade zone.

A new dedicated British Arena website has also launched.

The news comes as the British Esports Federation – the national gaming federation behind the arena – celebrates its 10th anniversary on March 21st 2026.

The venue will sit alongside the existing National Esports Performance Campus facilities and The Place accommodation located in Sunniside, the heart of Sunderland, opposite the Stadium of Light, the home of Premier League football team AFC Sunderland.

British Esports has worked closely with Sunderland City Council to drive digital skills, career pathways and economic growth in the North East in recent years. Its senior leadership team also have significant experience managing events and venues, having operated premium hospitality at Wembley Stadium.

Many local businesses and global brands have already expressed interest in getting involved with the new arena, which presents a unique opportunity for a suitable naming partner to benefit from vast exposure through premium fan experiences, fan zones and intimate private activation spaces.

In addition, the British Arena is set to host global-reaching esports events and activities, such as practice matches for teams ahead of the major Esports World Cup and Esports Nations Cup.

The inaugural International Defence Esports Games finals for military gaming teams will also take place at the British Arena from October 9th to 11th 2026.

Dave Martin, British Esports Senior Vice President, commented: “There’s been a real rise in excitement as the British Arena takes shape and the world can see its development is underway. We’ve been meeting all kinds of people and businesses who want to get involved and we’re hugely optimistic about the potential of this venue.

“With building works progressing nicely, we have a few design concept images to share, which help bring the arena to life to help potential partners understand what it’s all about. Several exciting conversations are underway in what is arguably the biggest thing we’ve done to date. We can’t wait to share more with you.”

The arena will sit at the heart of the transforming Sheepfolds area, which is part of Riverside Sunderland, a development that is held up as one of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration projects.

Peter McIntyre, Executive Director of Economy & Place at Sunderland City Council, said: “The arena will be a fantastic addition to Sheepfolds, which is transforming thanks to developments like the Stables and the new Housing Innovation & Construction Skills Academy, and with much more to come. 

“Sunderland is an exciting place for people to live, work and play, and – with this new addition – the future looks even brighter.”

Businesses interested in getting involved with the British Arena or becoming a naming rights partner can contact British Esports here

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Contacts

Press | British Esports | press@britishesports.org

Stephen Gallagher | Commercial Vice President, British Esports | stephen.gallagher@britishesports.org

Joel Lavery | Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Major Events, British Esports | joel.lavery@britishesports.org

About the British Esports Federation

Established in 2016, British Esports is the national body for esports in the UK. It is the recognised member of the Global Esports Federation for Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and founding member of the International Olympic Committee Esports and Gaming Liaison Group. From nationwide amateur grassroots competition to cutting edge esports curriculum and national representation on the global stage, British Esports is dedicated to increasing levels of esports awareness, improving esports standards, and inspiring future esports talent. 

www.britishesports.org