Cannes Lions 2026 brings Creative Brand Lions, new AI Craft category, refocused or extended categories
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, taking place 22-26 June 2026, has announced updates to the Awards ahead of opening for submissions in January. Cannes Lions 2026 will introduce the Creative Brand Lion, as well as a number of evolutions across the breadth of the Lions.
About the Creative Brand Lion, Simon Cook, CEO, LIONS, said:
“For 70 years, we’ve recognized the work and creative outputs that drive demand for brands all around the world. But in 2026, we’re asking a different question: what are the inputs that make those breakthrough ideas possible in the first place? The Lion will recognize the visionary brands that are building the systems, cultures and capabilities that make world-class creative marketing inevitable and repeatable – and the practices that transform creative potential into lasting business impact.
“As the industry continues to evolve at pace, and economic uncertainty has intensified focus on creative investment returns, we must shine a spotlight on the brands and businesses that are building the capabilities that allow commercial creativity to thrive. We continue to evolve and adapt the Lions to reflect the rapidly changing industry landscape and recognise the brands that are designing the organisational foundations that will enable and sustain creative marketing that matters – for the future.”
With submissions into the Cannes Lions Awards opening on 15 January 2026, further changes to the Awards have also been announced: Creative Data Lion is refreshed to reflect how data’s role evolved from informing to driving creative strategy.
The introduction of AI Craft subcategories across the craft-led Lions will recognize work where human creativity and artificial intelligence come together to create ideas that neither could achieve alone. The focus is on recognizing genuine craft, artistry and intent, where AI works in service of the idea. And following retail media’s trajectory as 2025’s fastest-growing medium, new subcategories have been introduced into the Creative Strategy and Creative Data Lions to reflect the breadth of innovation happening in the space.
Marian Brannelly, Global Director of Awards, LIONS.
“We’re witnessing the industry evolve with data and technology playing a pivotal role in how creativity is used to solve business problems,”
“Data has become a creative catalyst, AI is expanding what’s possible and retail media is redefining how brands connect with consumers. These changes reflect how technology isn’t just supporting creativity, it’s allowing us to conquer new creative frontiers.”
In other areas of the Festival, the Cannes Lions Call for Content is now open with applications accepted until 31 December 2025. Proposals are welcome from anyone, anywhere, and all applications to speak onstage should be made via the dedicated content portal. Further information can be found here.
Passes for Cannes Lions 2026 are now available, and more details on the variety of options available, including funded opportunities, can be found online.