The Global Gaming Expo 2026 announced on Wednesday the G2E Dealer Championship will return to this year’s event September 29-October 1. Nominations are open for the competition that brings together top casino dealers to compete for the title of best dealer in North America.
After last year’s turnout, the G2E Dealer Championship will expand beyond the United States to include participants from across North America, including Canada and Mexico. The event will feature a larger footprint on the show floor, giving more attendees the opportunity to experience the fast-paced competition firsthand.
“We’re proud to bring back the G2E Dealer Championship after it was so well received in 2025,” RX’s Event Vice President for G2E Korbi Carrison said in a statement. “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.”
Contestants will deal blackjack and traditional roulette for 15 minutes, evaluated on technical skills, hospitality and game control. The multi-day competition will feature a series of elimination rounds to determine the champion and culminate in cash prizes for the top three competitors.
Last year’s inaugural G2E Dealer Championship hosted 34 dealers from around the United States. Elleonor Hoffman from Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert Park, California, was crowned champion and earned $5,000 and a trophy as “World’s Best Dealer.”
The competition is open to full-time, part-time and dual-rate dealers and requires nomination through their employer – legal, state- and tribal-regulated casino operators across North America. Every nomination must include an accompanying judge from the same property. Nominators must be in a table games role at the casino operator and hold the title of director level or above.
“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 former Wynn Resorts Executive Vice President of Casino Operations, Executive Coach & Gaming Consultant Debi Nutton. “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.”
Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering a variety of ways for brands to participate and engage with attendees. Sponsors will have the opportunity to showcase their brand through on-site visibility, digital promotion and interactive attendee engagement opportunities throughout the event.
