The Audio Academy ARIAS returned tonight at its iconic new venue, the Roundhouse in London, celebrating the pinnacle of passion, creativity, and vocal talent across the UK radio and audio landscape. Hosted by Rylan, the prestigious ceremony saw the announcement of winners across 21 competitive categories, drawing an illustrious guest list of creators from radio, podcasting, and music.
The highly coveted title of UK Radio Station or Radio Network of the Year was claimed by Hits Radio, capping off a remarkable night for the network. Meanwhile, BBC Radio 1 Breakfast with Greg James secured the Gold award for Best Music Breakfast Show. In the public-voted categories, Bloomberg's "Listen love, you're trying ever so hard"—featuring Mishal Husain's viral interview with Nigel Farage—captured the popular Radio Times Moment of the Year.
A standout moment of the evening brought the entire audience to their feet as legendary DJ and broadcaster Trevor Nelson was honoured with the 2026 Judges' Special Recognition Award. Presented by musician Craig David, the accolade celebrates Nelson's profound cultural impact on the British music scene and his recent milestone of 30 years with the BBC.
The awards also highlighted a diverse array of fresh talent and major audio brands. Singer-songwriter Beth Ditto took home the Gold for Best New Presenter for her acclaimed BBC Radio 6 Music show, while BBC Sounds was named Audio Brand of the Year. In the commercial and independent production categories, Dove and Sony Music Podcasts’ How To Fail with Elizabeth Day won Best Commercial Partnership, and TBI Media secured Best Music Entertainment for the Romesh Ranganathan show on BBC Radio 2.
Attendees at the roundtable celebration were treated to exceptional live performances from Ezra Collective’s Femi Koleoso and West End star Marisha Wallace. Red carpet and backstage interviews were handled by Kiss FM's Tyler West, capturing the energy of an industry charity event that has championed excellence in British audio broadcasting since 1983.
