Premios Juventud made its European debut on Thursday night, bringing the youth-focused Latin music awards to the Starlite Auditorium in Marbella, Spain, according to Billboard. Marking the first time the show has been staged outside the Americas, the 23rd edition transformed the Costa del Sol into a major meeting point for top Latin music acts and homegrown Spanish pop stars under the theme “Conéctate al Vibe.”
Marbella Debut Honors Agents of Change and Kicks Off PJ Fest
The Thursday night ceremony capped the inaugural PJ Fest, a weeklong TelevisaUnivision initiative that stretched from Miami and Houston to Los Angeles and Marbella, according to Billboard. During the gala, organizers honored Antonio Banderas, Marc Anthony, Yandel, and La Oreja de Van Gogh as Agents of Change for their impact on music and community service.
Early winners included Shakira and Burna Boy, who won OMG Collaboration for their World Cup song “Dai Dai,” while Carín León and Alejandro Fernández secured My Favorite Track for “Me Está Doliendo,” as reported by Billboard. Billboard also noted that Carín León led the initial pack with nine nominations, followed by Beéle, Kany García, and Rauw Alejandro with seven nods each.
Cross-Atlantic Collaborations Highlight the Marbella Stage
The stage delivered cross-generational and cross-continental linkups throughout the night, according to Billboard. Farruko, Juan Magán, and DJ Rous opened the festivities with “Marbella Nights,” the event’s new anthem. Greeicy then joined Farruko onstage for their Latin Airplay No. 1 EDM collaboration “Yapaque,” which also features Steve Aoki. Quevedo celebrated his Canary Islands roots alongside Elvis Crespo and Las Cuatro during a medley of “Columbia,” “Al Golpito,” and “La Graciosa.”
Additional performances featured a stacked roster of talent including Ángela Aguilar, Camilo, Christian Nodal, Eladio Carrión, Elena Rose, Marc Anthony, Morat, Natanael Cano, Wisin, Xavi, and Yandel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Premios Juventud held?
According to Billboard, the awards took place at the Starlite Auditorium in Marbella, Spain, marking the show’s first time in Europe.
Who were the Agents of Change honorees?
Billboard reported that Antonio Banderas, Marc Anthony, Yandel, and La Oreja de Van Gogh were honored as Agents of Change.
Which artist received the most nominations?
According to Billboard, Carín León led the 2026 nominations with nine total nods.
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