2026 Next Round Roadmap
If you’ve been keeping an eye on our next round updates, the “planning” phase hit its next milestone. ICANN recently released the initial list of evaluated Registry Service Providers (RSPs), which is a key step for anyone considering a dotBrand or generic TLD application.
The RSP acts as the backend technical provider supporting your registry operations. Selecting an RSP is not just a strategic choice, it is a mandatory requirement for the application process.
The initial RSP list includes established names from the previous round, such as GoDaddy Registry and Identity Digital, alongside new additions like DigiCert, and the full list is available through ICANN.
This follows the final Applicant Guidebook (AGB), which was officially published in December 2025 and serves as the rulebook for the 2026 application round for those considering applying. That application window remains on track to open on April 30, 2026, and to remain open for a limited 12–15-week period.
Why this matters
An RSP is essentially the technical backbone of a TLD. For this upcoming round, ICANN is pre-vetting these providers to validate they meet strict security and stability standards. This is to ensure technical protocol is met before the actual application window opens. More details about approved RSPs, and the vetting process can be found on ICANN’s Registry Service Providers Evaluation page
The GoDaddy Advantage: GoDaddy Corporate Domains can assist you in identifying and vetting qualified RSPs, working with your existing partners, or coordinating directly with GoDaddy Registry, under the GoDaddy umbrella, to help set your strategies up for success. No matter which route you take, we remain your strategic partner, delivering guidance and centralized facilitation, supported by ICANN-qualified technical infrastructure.
Next Stop: ICANN85 in Mumbai
Look forward to more major updates on the 2026 application round from the ICANN85 community forum, which will take place in Mumbai from March 7–12.
There will be a number of sessions focused on the next round, with a specific session on Saturday, March 7th focused on the RSP Evaluation Program. We’re expecting more details on the second submission window and how the RSP program will integrate with the 2026 application window in April.
Our team will be following the developments in Mumbai closely, with more details and a follow-up webinar to follow.
