Entertainment
CMA announces finalists for 2026 International Awards
Contenders include Lainey Wilson, Tucker Wetmore, and international broadcasters recognized for expanding country music's global presence.
The short version
- The Country Music Association revealed finalists for three categories in the 2026 CMA International Awards.
- Lainey Wilson, Tucker Wetmore, Jordan Davis, and Drake Milligan are nominated for the international artist achievement award.
- Winners across all six CMA International Award categories will be named later in the year.
Key facts
- The Country Music Association revealed finalists across three categories based on accomplishments during the eligibility window of May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026.[Billboard]
- Jordan Davis, Drake Milligan, Tucker Wetmore, and Lainey Wilson are the finalists for the international artist achievement award.[Billboard]
- Nominees for the Jeff Walker global country artist award are Wade Forster, Gareth, James Johnston, and Tami Neilson.[Billboard]
- Finalists for the international country broadcaster award include Shannon Ella, Bob Harris, Baylen Leonard, and Justin Thomson.[Billboard]
- Three additional career-based CMA International Awards do not use a finalist shortlist, and winners across all six categories will be announced later this year.[Billboard]
What remains uncertain
- The specific date and venue for the announcement of the award recipients have not yet been specified.[Billboard]