IMS IBIZA, presented in partnership with AlphaTheta, the thought-leadership platform at the intersection of culture, education, industry, and wellness in electronic music, is proud to announce Yann Pissenem as the headline Keynote Interview of the 2026 summit and also the recipient of the IMS Legends Award 2026.
A pioneering figure in global nightlife and music entertainment, Yann Pissenem is Owner, Founder and CEO of The Night League and Ushuaïa Entertainment and creative visionary behind some of the world’s most iconic and influential venues, including Ushuaïa Ibiza, Hï Ibiza, [UNVRS], and Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience. With more than 30 years of experience, he has played a defining role in transforming Ibiza into the global epicentre of electronic music and club culture. A dynamic innovator, his work has consistently pushed the boundaries of what nightlife can be by combining music, design, technology and human connection to create immersive, world-class experiences.
Driven by a relentless passion for innovation, creativity and excellence, Yann continues to shape the modern nightlife landscape one groundbreaking venue at a time. Today, The Night League welcomes over two million guests annually, setting new standards for scale, quality and cultural impact, while Yann Pissenem remains at the forefront of redefining the future of global nightlife and music entertainment. Following a headline Keynote Interview with IMS co-founder Pete Tong delving into one of the most fascinating careers in the music industry, Yann Pissenem will be formally presented with the IMS Legends Award 2026 during a celebratory dinner held during IMS Ibiza.
Yann Pissenem, Owner, Founder and CEO of The Night League and Ushuaïa Entertainment, says: “I am truly honoured to receive this recognition from IMS. Ibiza has been my home and my inspiration for many years, and the island, with its unique spirit, creativity and freedom, has shaped not only my work, but also my entire understanding of nightlife and electronic music culture.
Looking back on this journey, I am above all filled with gratitude. To my partners, whose trust and shared vision have been essential from the very beginning, and to my brother, with whom I have shared every step of this adventure. Thank you all for believing, for constantly pushing further, and for walking this path together.
Along the way, I have been fortunate to cross paths with artists at various stages of their careers. Some joined us as emerging talents and have since become defining figures of our industry; others were already established artists who believed in our vision from the very first moment, and who, decades later, still consider our venues their home.
I also wish to express my deepest thanks to the bookers, managers, agents, promoters, creative partners and the wider music industry that surrounds and supports our work everyday. What began as professional collaboration has, over the years, grown into a true extended family built on trust, respect and shared values. And most of all, to the extraordinary teams behind the scenes across every department, and to all staff members whose passion, dedication and tireless work bring our venues to life.
Seeing our three venues, Hï Ibiza, Ushuaïa Ibiza and [UNVRS], recognised among the best in the world is not an end in itself, but a reflection of our shared passion: the desire to continually push boundaries, to pursue excellence without compromise, and to believe that nightlife can create unforgettable moments that transcend the ordinary.
This award belongs to everyone who has been part of that vision. It would not be possible without the loyalty and trust of our audience. To see more than two million people choose our dancefloors in the past year alone, is both deeply humbling and a great responsibility. I feel immense pride for what we have built together, and sincere appreciation for all those who continue to make this journey possible.”
The IMS organisation states: “We are very proud to honour the career of Yann Pissenem at the 17th edition of IMS Ibiza. As this year’s recipient of the IMS Legends Award, there can be nobody more deserving from the nightlife world. He has transformed the island of Ibiza on countless occasions, from his first events on the sand, breaking DJ residency rules when opening Ushuaïa, launching Hï to a new generation, right up to the launch of [UNVRS] last year. He leads an incredible team of people at The Night League, assisted by his brother Romain’s pioneering production company High Scream. A true visionary, he’s changed the rules again and again, and one wonders what the next move will be.”
The IMS Legends Award dinner will take place on Wednesday 22 April as part of IMS Ibiza. With a very limited number of tickets to be released, those wishing to attend are invited to sign up for further information and to register their interest in purchasing tickets.
