Pompompurin Leads Sanrio’s 2026 Fan Vote at the Halfway Stage
Sanrio has officially revealed the intermediate standings for the “2026 Sanrio Character Ranking” as the massive voting event enters its second half.
The mid-point update provides a detailed look at the top 20 rankings and the regional favorites across various international markets.
Pompompurin has successfully surged into the top position, overtaking the initial flash report leader Cinnamoroll as he strives for a second consecutive victory.
The golden retriever mascot currently enjoys immense popularity across the globe, holding the provisional first-place spot in 11 different international countries and regions.
Cinnamoroll remains a powerful contender in second place, followed closely by the athletic and curious Pochacco who maintains his strong third-place ranking.
The mischievous yet charming Kuromi holds onto fourth place, while the iconic Hello Kitty rounds out the top five favorites in this latest update.
Ahiru no Pekkle continues his impressive momentum by climbing to seventh place, building on the strong start he demonstrated during the early preliminary stage.
Hangyodon has also made a significant impact by breaking into the top ten for the first time this year, currently securing the eighth position ahead of the sweet-natured My Melody in sixth.
The provisional lead for the “2026 Sanrio Character Ranking Partner Category” is currently held by the “Shirotan x Sanrio Characters” collaboration.
This popular crossover features the adorable harp seal mascot Shirotan alongside the classic Sanrio cast in a variety of heartwarming and creative designs.
A new addition to the event this year is the “Happirina Friends Category,” where the chinchilla character Chochocilla has dominated the initial results.
Chochocilla has remarkably secured the top spot in every sub-award, including the “Want to be With Award,” “Want to Collect Lots Award,” and the “Want to Watch Stories Award.”
Sanrio is also planning a special incentive for the 41st-place finisher to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the competition.
Osaru no Monkichi currently holds the 41st position and is the primary candidate for this designated special prize if he maintains his standing.
Each of the leading characters shared heartfelt messages to express their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received during the voting period so far.
Pompompurin invited everyone to enjoy his anniversary year together, while Cinnamoroll noted that the smiles of his supporters provide him with all the power he needs.
Pochacco shared that the kindness of his fans makes him naturally smile, and Kuromi encouraged her supporters to keep smiling in their own unique way until the very end.
Hello Kitty expressed her joy at feeling the deep emotions of her supporters, and My Melody mentioned that the cheers have given her a warm and fuzzy feeling inside.
Fans looking to influence the final outcome have until Sunday, May 24, 2026, to cast their final votes through the official online portal.
The final results of the “2026 Sanrio Character Ranking” will be officially revealed during a special announcement at the “Sanrio Fes 2026 in Minatomirai” event on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
This post may contain affiliate links, and Essential Japan may earn a commission if you purchase through them.
