🔥 Trending 2026 ESPYS: Red Carpet Fashion, Award Winners, and Top Moments

The 2026 ESPY Awards, held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, celebrated the best in sports and entertainment from the past year ³⁴⁸. The event took place at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City and was broadcast live on ABC ⁵⁸⁹. Comedian Marcello Hernandez hosted the ceremony ²⁵.

Key Highlights and Winners from the 2026 ESPYS

The ESPYS are an annual tradition that honors top athletes, memorable performances, and championship moments, bringing together figures from sports, music, film, and television ⁴.

Notable Award Recipients

While a complete list of all winners is extensive, several prominent athletes and teams were recognized ¹⁶¹⁰:

• Lionel Messi was among the athletes vying for and potentially receiving awards ¹⁶¹⁰. His presence and potential wins are frequently highlighted in coverage ⁶.
• Jalen Brunson also featured prominently in the list of nominees and winners ¹⁶¹⁰.
• Alysa Liu and Hilary Knight were recognized for their achievements in their respective sports ¹¹⁰.
• Victor Wembanyama was another significant name mentioned in relation to the awards ⁶.

Specific categories like "Best Athlete" and "Best Team" are among the most anticipated, with voting often involving public participation ⁶⁷.

Event Atmosphere and Red Carpet

The event was marked by a vibrant red carpet, where top athletes, musicians, and Hollywood stars gathered ³⁵⁹. Photos of celebrity arrivals were a significant part of the coverage, showcasing the intersection of sports and entertainment ⁵⁸⁹. The return of the ESPYS to New York City added to the excitement of the event ⁹.

The ESPYS not only recognize athletic excellence but also serve as a platform for various personalities to celebrate the year's most impactful sporting moments ⁴.