Radio Mercury Awards Names 2026 Finalists Ahead Of New York Ceremony.

The Radio Mercury Awards has announced the finalists for its 2026 competition, recognizing creative achievement in radio and audio advertising across multiple platforms. This year’s finalists include Audacy Studios, iHeartMedia’s Studio 55, Zimmer Communications, and Arnold Worldwide, among others.

Now in its 35th year, the awards program honors work spanning broadcast radio, streaming audio, podcasts and other formats, highlighting the role of sound in connecting with audiences and building brands.

Finalists were chosen by a panel of advertising industry creatives led by chief judge Danny Gonzalez, co-chief creative officer and co-founder of Bandits & Friends.

“Serving as chief judge for the Radio Mercury Awards is a true honor,” Gonzalez says in a news release. “The work this year captures the current zeitgeist of audio — a medium that is increasingly personal, culturally fluent and creatively fearless. The best pieces don’t just communicate a message; they create a moment, reflecting how audiences engage with sound in their everyday lives.”

The awards are produced by the Radio Advertising Bureau, whose president and CEO, Mike Hulvey, said the program continues to highlight innovation in the medium.

“At its core, the Radio Mercury Awards celebrates the creative spirit that fuels the industry,” Hulvey says. “The work honored each year continues to be a beacon for radio and audio — showcasing the medium’s unique ability to engage, inspire and deliver impact for brands.”

The final round jury also includes executives from agencies such as BBDO New York, Special/New York, Le Pub New York, Mischief @ No Fixed Address, BarkleyOKRP and Oberland, among others.

Sponsors for this year’s awards include major media and research companies such as Audacy, Bonneville International, Cox Media Group, Hubbard Radio, iHeartRadio, Nielsen, Skyview Networks and Urban One.

Winners will be announced June 3 during a ceremony at Sony Hall in New York City. The event will be hosted by nationally syndicated iHeartRadio personality Angela Yee, who hosts the program “Way Up with Angela Yee.”

For a complete list of finalists (with audio), click HERE.