Casino operators have until tomorrow, July 17, to submit their nominations for the 2026 G2E Dealer Championship. This exciting competition will return to the Global Gaming Expo with an enhanced format following its successful debut last year.
The championship invites eligible casino operators from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to nominate candidates, celebrating the skills, professionalism, and guest service of dealers. Scheduled to take place from September 29 to October 1, 2026, at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas, this year’s event will feature participants from across North America for the first time.
Originally launched as a U.S.-only event in 2025, the competition will now have a larger presence on the G2E show floor, allowing more attendees to witness the live action. Contestants will compete in blackjack and traditional roulette, each game lasting 15 minutes, while being assessed on their technical skills, hospitality, and game management. A series of elimination rounds will determine the finalists, with cash prizes awarded to the top three competitors.
The competition is open to full-time, part-time, and dual-rate dealers employed by licensed commercial, tribal, and state-regulated casinos across North America. Nominations must come from a table games executive at the director level or higher, and each nomination must include a judge from the same property.
Korbi Carrison, Event Vice President for G2E at RX, expressed pride in bringing back the G2E Dealer Championship, highlighting the exceptional talent and showmanship of casino dealers. She noted that last year’s competition was a standout moment at G2E, energizing the show floor and generating excitement for the return of the event.
The inaugural championship featured 34 dealers from various U.S. casinos, with Elleonor Hoffman from Graton Resort & Casino winning the title and the top cash prize. Organizers noted that the event quickly became a highlight of G2E 2025, offering attendees insight into the expertise needed for live table games and recognizing dealers as vital ambassadors of the casino experience.
Debi Nutton, former EVP of Casino Operations, emphasized that the G2E Dealer Championship serves as an interactive platform to showcase the talents of dealers from North America. She remarked on the important role dealers play in shaping guests' first impressions and expressed her honor in highlighting their skills on such a significant stage.
In addition to the competition, sponsorship opportunities are available for companies looking to increase their visibility during the event through on-site branding, digital marketing, and engagement initiatives.
Eligible casino operators are encouraged to submit their nominations before the July 17 deadline. For more information on nominations, click here.
Registration for the Global Gaming Expo 2026 is also open, with the event set to take place at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas from September 29 to October 1. This gathering will unite gaming professionals from around the globe for three days of networking, product launches, education, and industry events. Register here for G2E 2026.