News Releases

Tokyo, June 28, 2026 – Sanrio Co., Ltd. today announced the final results of the 2026 Sanrio character ranking, the annual popularity voting event for Sanrio characters.

The total number of votes reached a record-high 70,647,379 (112% of the previous year's total). Taking the top spot was Pompompurin (ranked No. 1 last year). Although Cinnamoroll led in the initial results announcement, Pompompurin garnered more than 7 million votes during his 30th anniversary year, securing the No. 1 ranking for the second consecutive year and for the fifth time overall.

• A record-breaking 70,647,379 votes were cast, up 12% from last year.

• Celebrating his 30th anniversary year, Pompompurin garnered more than 7 million votes to claim the No. 1 spot for the second consecutive year and the fifth time overall.

• Cinnamoroll ranked No. 2 and Pochacco No. 3, with Sanrio’s three popular dog characters sweeping the top three spots. 

• Pekkle made a significant leap from No. 10 last year to No. 6. 

• My Sweet Piano also climbed five places, rising from No. 18 last year to No. 13.

Cinnamoroll ranked No. 2, followed by Pochacco in No. 3, Kuromi in No. 4, and Hello Kitty in No. 5. These beloved characters, which have continued to be cherished by fans around the world for many years, once again garnered strong support this year.

A diverse range of characters placed in the Top 20, drawing renewed attention to their unique personalities and appeal. Pekkle rose from No. 10 last year to No. 6, following his first Top 10 finish in 31 years last year and receiving strong support from fans. Meanwhile, My Sweet Piano climbed from No. 18 last year to No. 13, marking the largest ranking increase among the Top 20 characters.

The official website also features the complete results of the 2026 Sanrio character ranking, the Top 10 rankings by overseas country and region, the Top 15 rankings in the 2026 Sanrio character ranking Partner Category, and the first-place winners of each award in the 2026 Sanrio character ranking Happilinafriends Category.

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.
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.