Paris, France, August 26, 2026 – MIPCOM CANNES (October 12–15, 2026) today announces the return of Merzigo, a global media technology company supporting the next generation of premium content distribution and monetization, as Main Partner of the MIPCOM CANNES Opening Night Party. This partnership renews a successful collaboration following the 2025 edition.

Co-hosted with YouTube, and featuring renowned “Media Cartographer” Evan Shapiro as Merzigo’s special guest, the official opening night will take place at the iconic Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes on Monday, October 12 at 7:00 PM, setting the cultural and business tone for the international market.

As part of the official opening of MIPCOM CANNES, the Merzigo x YouTube x MIPCOM Cannes Opening Night Party will bring together senior executives and decision-makers from television, streaming, brands, digital media, technology, and the creator economy for an evening focused on networking and celebration.

The evening will also feature a series of exclusive experiences and specially designed activations inspired by the evolution of premium content, creators, and digital innovation.

Merzigo is a global media technology company redefining how premium content is distributed and monetized in the digital age. Its continued partnership with MIPCOM CANNES reflects a shared commitment to making the world’s best content more accessible to international audiences while fostering innovation, audience growth, and new business opportunities across the global entertainment ecosystem.

The collaboration also highlights YouTube’s growing presence at MIPCOM CANNES 2026, as the platform continues to serve as a bridge between traditional entertainment, digital-first intellectual properties, and the growth of connected television.

By bringing together studios, broadcasters, independent creators, and innovative platform players, the opening night will kick off the conversations and deals that will help shape the next generation of global audiovisual storytelling.

Yigit Dogan Celik, Chief Executive Officer of Merzigo, said:

“Our international audiences want to have control and are seeking quality entertainment. By working with some of the world’s leading rights holders and as one of YouTube’s leading monetization partners, our 6,000 channels give us a unique perspective on how premium content is evolving in the platform era. Following our positive partnership with RX France in 2025, we are delighted to once again co-host the Merzigo x YouTube x MIPCOM Cannes 2026 Opening Night alongside YouTube and continue this conversation at a pivotal moment for our industry.”

Pedro Pina, Vice President of YouTube for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said:

“Co-hosting the MIPCOM Cannes Opening Night alongside Merzigo is a celebration of the evolution of the media industry: an industry driven by powerful intellectual properties, global audiences, and lasting commercial partnerships across screens of all sizes.”

Lucy Smith, Director of MIPCOM CANNES and MIPJUNIOR, said:

“As the official opening event of MIPCOM Cannes, the opening night sets the tone for the week ahead and reflects the scale of the global entertainment industry today. We are delighted to welcome Merzigo back as Main Partner, alongside YouTube and Evan Shapiro, to celebrate an industry that continues to evolve through collaboration between broadcasters, streaming platforms, creators, technology companies, and brands.”

Following its strong presence at MIPCOM CANNES 2025, Merzigo will return to the market in 2026 with a dedicated space at Stand C16.E, accompanied throughout the week by a program of meetings, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and specially curated experiences.

The company will bring together its partners, leading industry players, and the wider entertainment community to explore the future of content distribution, audience development, and digital monetization.

MIPCOM CANNES 2026

MIPCOM CANNES, taking place from October 12 to 15, 2026, is recognized as the world’s largest international market dedicated to media and content. It brings together studios, broadcasters, streaming platforms, distributors, creators, brands, as well as companies specializing in artificial intelligence and technology from more than 100 countries.

In an increasingly interconnected media landscape, MIPCOM CANNES is a major industry gathering where deals are made, partnerships are developed, and new content is presented to international audiences.