Hollywood, Fla. – September 29, 2026 -- Hard Rock International was named Land-Based Operator of the Year at the 2026 Global Gaming Awards Americas in Las Vegas, marking the company's third win in this category. A panel of 100 senior industry executives determined the winners, with the voting process independently adjudicated by KPMG US.
Judges cite Canada and California expansions as key growth drivers
The award recognized Hard Rock's operational performance over the past 12 months, including the opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa, the company's first fully integrated resort in Canada. Judges also pointed to continued progress at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon in Kern County, California, which completed Phase One of development in November 2025 and includes 150,000 square feet of gaming space located 90 minutes north of Los Angeles.
Company advances multiple large-scale integrated resort projects
Hard Rock is progressing several major developments, including a new 42-story guitar-shaped hotel tower for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas on the Strip, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Athens in Europe, and Hard Rock at Metropolitan Park in Queens, New York, developed in partnership with Steve Cohen.
Hard Rock secures runner-up finishes in two additional categories
The company placed second for Responsible Business of the Year, reflecting its responsible gaming and social impact initiatives, and for Property of the Year for Hard Rock Casino Tejon, developed with the Tejon Indian Tribe. Hard Rock was also shortlisted for Digital Operator for Hard Rock Bet and Customer Loyalty Program for its Unity loyalty program.
"This recognition demonstrates how Hard Rock has built an unmatched gaming experience rooted in 55 years of music heritage," said Jeff Hook, Chief Operating Officer at Hard Rock International.