Google Play Named Headline Partner for 2026 BAFTA Games Awards
The 22nd BAFTA Games Awards represents a major moment in the international gaming calendar.
RMN Stars Games Desk
New Delhi | April 2, 2026
LONDON — BAFTA has officially confirmed Google Play as the new headline partner for the upcoming 2026 BAFTA Games Awards. The year-long partnership marks a significant commitment to celebrating excellence in the games industry and strengthening connections within the global gaming community.
A Collaboration Focused on Talent and Community
Beyond the awards ceremony itself, the collaboration will support a wide range of industry initiatives. Google Play is set to back BAFTA’s programme of games-focused masterclasses, which provide aspiring creatives with practical skills and access to industry experts. The partnership also includes support for networking events for developers and storytellers, as well as the BAFTA Young Games Designers (YGD) competition, ensuring resources and inspiration for the next generation of creators.
Anthony Cole-Johnson, executive director of Commercial at BAFTA, stated that the support from Google Play will help “amplify the Games Awards while also expanding our programme of masterclasses… helping us nurture and celebrate the next generation of games creators”.
Expanding Global Reach
The 22nd BAFTA Games Awards represents a major moment in the international gaming calendar. Through Google Play’s network, BAFTA aims to connect more authentically with mobile games players worldwide.
Ben McOwen Wilson, managing director for Google Play (EMEA), highlighted the shared vision of the two organizations, noting, “Our partnership with BAFTA reflects Google Play’s commitment to supporting developers who create seamless, quality, high-fidelity experiences for all”.
Event Details
The winners of the 2026 awards will be revealed during a live ceremony in London on Friday, 17 April. The event will be hosted by Elz and streamed globally via BAFTA’s Twitch and YouTube channels, with additional content shared across social media platforms. Nominations for the awards were previously announced on March 12.
About the Partners
- BAFTA is an independent arts charity dedicated to championing the creative importance of the screen arts—film, games, and television—through awards and year-round talent initiatives.
- Google Play is a global digital store serving over 2.5 billion monthly users across 190 markets, connecting people with high-quality apps and games.
