International Booker Prize Doubles Winnings to £100K

The International Booker Prize has entered a new era with a landmark funding agreement that doubles the prize money and extends the award's runway through 2037. Following successful support throughout 2026, Bukhman Philanthropies has committed to backing the literary competition for the next decade, leading to its official renaming as the Bukhman International Booker Prize.

Record Prize Money Announced

The cash award for the winning title will increase substantially from £50,000 to £100,000, marking the largest payout in the prestigious award's history. The sum will be divided equally between the author and their translator or translators—a practice that underscores the organization's longstanding commitment to recognizing the vital role of translation in bringing global literature to English-speaking readers.

Shortlisted works will continue receiving £5,000 each, allocated at £2,500 for the author and £2,500 for the translator or translators involved in each selected book.

Patron Background

Bukhman Philanthropies was founded by Daria and Dmitri Bukhman, Russian entrepreneurs who co-founded the mobile gaming company Playrix. Their philanthropic arm previously supported the prize during 2026 before committing to the expanded ten-year arrangement announced Thursday.

2027 Judging Panel Revealed

The judging committee for the 2027 iteration of the Bukhman International Booker Prize has been confirmed, with American writer Katie Kitamura chairing the panel. She is joined by an international roster of cultural figures including:

Key Dates Unveiled

The schedule for the upcoming cycle proceeds as follows:

• Longlist announcement: March 17, 2027 (12–13 books expected)
• Shortlist publication: April 15, 2027
• Winner ceremony: May 2027

The International Booker Prize celebrated its tenth anniversary last year, cementing its position as one of the most significant recognitions in contemporary translated fiction. With increased financial backing and visibility under the new partnership, organizers anticipate heightened interest from publishers and authors worldwide competing for the enhanced honor.

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