The first major winner of the 2026 BRIT Awards has been revealed, with Scottish singer-songwriter Jacob Alon clinching the coveted Critics' Choice Award. The announcement was made live on BBC Radio 1, setting the stage for the main ceremony in Manchester next month.
An Emotional Victory for a Scottish Star
Jacob Alon, the talented artist from Dunfermline in Fife, beat fellow nominees Rose Grey and Sienna Spiro to secure the honour. The award, which is backed by BBC Radio 1, has a storied history of predicting future success, with past winners including global superstars like Adele and Dua Lipa.
The news was delivered by Radio 1 presenter Jack Saunders during his evening show. In an emotional and heartfelt acceptance, Alon paid tribute to their Celtic heritage, beginning with the Gaelic phrase "Taing mhòr" (Thanks a lot). They dedicated the award to the critics, calling them "absolute dotes."
"In the wee town where I grew up in Scotland, it often felt like there was a limit to how high you could dare to dream," Alon reflected. "So being part of something like this makes me feel like I’m floating far above the sky."
A Promise to Keep Fighting for Softness
Alon's speech took a poignant turn as they spoke about the meaning behind their music. "In a world full of broken and rusted jaggy edges, I’m grateful to find a place for softness still. And I will keep fighting for it," they vowed.
They expressed deep belief in their craft, stating that their music brightens their world each time it connects with a listener. Alon hopes the award will lead more people to discover their debut album, 'In Limerence', released last year. The record, featuring tracks like "Fairy in a Bottle" and "Don't Fall Asleep," earned a place on the 2025 Mercury Prize longlist and established Alon as a distinctive new voice in British music.
Stacey Tang, Chair of the 2026 BRIT Awards Committee, congratulated the winner, highlighting the award's legacy. "This award has an incredible track record as a launchpad for so many brilliant artists... I'm sure Jacob will continue that trajectory," she said, emphasising the value of the critical recognition and confidence it provides to emerging talent.
A Meteoric Rise from Fife to National Acclaim
Alon's journey to the BRITs stage began in a Scottish school talent contest, where they first discovered a gift for captivating audiences with just a piano and a story. They honed their unique artistic identity within Edinburgh's folk scene, using music as a sanctuary and a tool for self-expression.
2025 proved to be a breakthrough year. Alongside the Mercury Prize nomination, Alon's accolades include:
- Becoming the first Scottish artist to win BBC Introducing's Artist of the Year.
- A nomination for the Scottish Album of the Year Award.
- Performances on Later... with Jools Holland and the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury.
- Being named one of BBC Radio 6 Music's Artists of the Year.
Known for sharp, witty lyrics and a blend of folk authenticity with pop sensibility, Alon is now stepping into a new phase with what industry observers call "unstoppable drive."
The 2026 BRIT Awards ceremony will make history by being held outside London for the first time. It is scheduled for Saturday, 28th February at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester and will be broadcast on ITV and ITVX. The Critics' Choice trophy for this year has been designed by renowned fashion designer Matthew Williamson.
