G2E Dealer Championship expands to include North American dealers in 2026 event

The G2E Dealer Championship will return to Global Gaming Expo 2026 with an expanded North American format, opening the competition to participants from the United States, Canada, and Mexico after its inaugural edition drew 34 dealers from across the United States in 2025.

The event, presented by the American Gaming Association and organized by RX, is scheduled to take place from Tuesday, Sept. 29, through Thursday, Oct. 1. Nominations are now open for the competition, which will recognize casino dealers competing for the title of best dealer in North America.

Contestants will be required to deal Blackjack and traditional Roulette for 15 minutes each. They will be assessed on technical skills, hospitality, and game control, with the multi-day format featuring elimination rounds before the top three competitors receive cash prizes.

The 2026 edition will also occupy a larger area on the G2E show floor, allowing more attendees to watch the competition. The expansion follows what organizers described as a strong response to the debut event, which ended with Elleonor Hoffman from Graton Resort being named champion and receiving a cash prize.

"The G2E Dealer Championship is an interactive way for us to not only recognize but to showcase the talents of dealers from across North America," said Debi Nutton, former EVP of Casino Operations, Executive Coach & Gaming Consultant.

"Dealers are at the heart of the gaming experience and often serve as the guests' first impression. I'm honored to help highlight their skill and professionalism on our industry's biggest stage."

Participation is open to full-time, part-time, and dual-rate dealers. Contestants must be nominated by their employers, which must be legal, state- and tribal-regulated casino operators in North America.

Each nomination must also include a judge from the same property. Nominators are required to work in a table games role at the casino operator and hold a director-level title or above.

"We're proud to bring back the G2E Dealer Championship after it was so well received in 2025," said Korbi Carrison, RX's Event Vice President for G2E. "This event showcases the exceptional talent and showmanship of casino dealers, while also exemplifying the important part they play in creating a memorable gaming experience."

"Last year's competition was a standout G2E moment that brought tremendous energy to the show floor, and we're excited to see the event return and include more dealers from across North America following the strong response to last year's competition."

Organizers announced that sponsorship opportunities are now available for the 2026 championship. Sponsors will be able to participate through on-site visibility, digital promotion, and interactive attendee engagement opportunities during the event.

For more information regarding eligibility requirements and to nominate, visit www.globalgamingexpo.com.