Geese Wins Big at BRIT Awards, Frontman Delivers Politically Charged Speech

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Geese, the Brooklyn-based band, emerged victorious at the 2026 BRIT Awards, winning the International Group of the Year prize. During the acceptance speech, the band's drummer Max Bassin delivered a politically charged statement, calling for a free Palestine, criticizing ICE, and paying tribute to the late Madchester legend Mani.

Why it matters

Geese's win and Bassin's speech highlight the band's willingness to use their platform to address social and political issues, aligning with a growing trend of musicians using awards show stages to voice their views on important matters. The tribute to Mani also underscores the ceremony's connection to Manchester's musical legacy.

The details

Geese beat out other nominees like Haim, Tame Impala, HUNTR/X, and Turnstile to claim the International Group of the Year award at the ceremony held at Manchester's Co-op Live. Bassin's speech, which was censored on the live UK broadcast by ITV, included the statements: "free Palestine, fuck ICE, RIP Mani, let's go Geese." The show also featured a special dedication to The Stone Roses and Primal Scream bassist Mani, who passed away in November at the age of 63.

• Geese released their third album, 'Getting Killed', in September 2025.
• The 2026 BRIT Awards ceremony took place on February 28, 2026 in Manchester.

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