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TOKYO, April 9, 2026 – Sanrio Co., Ltd. (Sanrio) today announced the start of the 2026 Sanrio character ranking, with voting commencing from today.
The Sanrio character ranking is an annual fan voting event featuring Sanrio characters. It was first introduced in 1986 in The Strawberry News, Sanrio’s own monthly publication that provides fans with the latest information on characters and merchandise.
This year’s ranking features 90 characters selected from more than 450 Sanrio characters. Final results will be announced on June 28 via the official website.
This year’s theme is “You All Try! We All Cheer! Smiling Ovation!” Inspired by a standing ovation, it celebrates every character and brings fans together with smiles.
The key visual depicts Sanrio characters dressed in cheerleading outfits, energetically cheering with pom-poms and megaphones, embodying the spirit of the event.

Title:2026 Sanrio character ranking

Schedule:

Voting Period: April 9 – May 24

Initial Results (Top 10): April 14

Interim Results (Top 20): May 12

Final Results (Ranks 1–90): June 28
*All times are JST.
**Please note that announcement times are subject to change.

Pompompurin

“It’s my 30th anniversary year, and I want to enjoy and celebrate it even more with everyone—so let’s all do our best together!”

Cinnamoroll

“Your support gives me a gentle push forward! I’ll keep having fun and giving it my all again this year♪”

Pochacco

“Thank you always for your support! Let’s take it easy and enjoy every moment together♪”

Kuromi

“I’m doing things my way again this year, so you do things your way and have fun! Just try to keep up with me★”

Hello Kitty

“Thanks so much for all your support last year.  I’d be really happy if you could enjoy this year together with me♪”

Total number of votes: 63,166,096 (highest total in the event’s history) 
Voting period: April 10 – May 25, 2025