The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards have dropped the long-standing "Best Rock" category from their line-up, ending a tradition that had recognised the genre in some form since 1989. The decision leaves "Best Alternative" as the only remaining category with any rock connection, reflecting MTV's broader drift away from music programming, as its main channel now largely airs reality shows rather than music content. The change is notable because the VMAs have traditionally been seen as one of the few remaining nods to the network's musical heritage.

The rock category began life in 1989 as "Best Heavy Metal Video", before evolving through several name changes to become "Best Rock Video" in 1997 and later simply "Best Rock". Its removal comes just a year after the VMAs paid tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne with a performance featuring Yungblud and members of Aerosmith. The 2026 "Best Alternative" nominees include Olivia Rodrigo, Twenty One Pilots, Tame Impala and Noah Kahan, among others. This year's ceremony takes place on Sunday 27 September 2026 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, broadcast live on MTV and CBS.