Esports Awards 2026: IShowSpeed eyes historic third Streamer of the Year title as voting begins

The race for Streamer of the Year at the Esports Awards 2026 is officially underway, with a diverse lineup of 12 creators competing for one of the industry's most coveted honours.

The shortlist spans some of the biggest personalities across Twitch, YouTube and Kick, reflecting the growing influence of livestreaming beyond competitive gaming. Among the nominees are reigning champion IShowSpeed, alongside Kai Cenat, Jynxzi, CaseOh, Caedrel, Ohnepixel, TheBurntPeanut, Coringa, JasonTheWeen, StableRonaldo, Cinna and Snax Gaming.

With public voting now open, the contest is shaping up as one of the most closely watched categories at this year's awards.

Can IShowSpeed make it three in a row?

One storyline towers above the competition.

IShowSpeed enters this year's race as the defending champion after winning Streamer of the Year in 2024 and 2025. A victory in 2026 would give him a remarkable third consecutive title, further cementing his place among the biggest online creators.

However, repeating that feat will not be easy. Several nominees have enjoyed breakout years, building massive audiences through gaming streams, live events and viral content that has dominated social media.

Full list of Esports Awards 2026 Streamer of the Year nominees

The nominees for Streamer of the Year are:

• Jynxzi
• Caedrel
• IShowSpeed
• TheBurntPeanut
• Kai Cenat
• Ohnepixel
• CaseOh
• Coringa
• JasonTheWeen
• StableRonaldo
• Cinna
• Snax Gaming

Rather than rewarding creators from a single platform or gaming genre, the category brings together personalities from different corners of the streaming world, making it one of the most competitive fan-voted awards of the year.

Kai Cenat's nomination sparks debate online

Kai Cenat's inclusion has generated plenty of discussion, particularly because he spent much of the year away from regular streaming.

Many fans questioned how the creator remained among the finalists despite his lengthy break, while others argued that his influence during the year still justified the nomination.

One user on X remarked that earning a nomination despite being away for nearly nine months demonstrated the level of impact Kai Cenat continues to have within the streaming community.

Fans split over who deserves the crown

As voting gets underway, social media has already turned into a battleground.

Some fans argued that other creators, including LacyHimself, should have received a nomination, citing consistent streaming schedules and strong audience engagement throughout the year.

Others questioned whether reaction-focused creators deserved a place on the shortlist, suggesting streamers producing original content should be prioritised.

At the same time, IShowSpeed's supporters pointed to what they described as an extraordinary year. Fans highlighted his international tours across Africa and the Caribbean, large-scale livestreams, WWE WrestleMania appearance, World Cup-related content and record-breaking live viewership as evidence that he remains the frontrunner.

When does voting close?

Public voting for the Esports Awards 2026 Streamer of the Year category is now live through the official Esports Awards voting portal and will remain open until November 10, 2026.

With months still left before voting closes, the competition remains wide open. IShowSpeed will attempt to extend his winning streak, while 11 fellow creators will be hoping to end his dominance and claim one of streaming's biggest annual honours.