The search for the culinary talents of the future begins: the seventh edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy competition begins

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is more than a chef competition. It is an event that serves to discover talent and supports young people, encouraging creativity and finding their own cooking style. The Academy offers a unique opportunity to accelerate professional development by gaining international recognition through mentorship from leading figures in gastronomy.

The competition attracts candidates from all over the world, who will be shortlisted in 15 regions, decided by ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts. The candidates will then compete in 15 regional finals, with the regional winners advancing to the grand final. During the competition, candidates will be assessed on three main criteria: technical knowledge, creativity and personal commitment.

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is also introducing a new mentoring program this year to support talent beyond the competition. Ardy Ferguson, the winner of the 2024-25 competition, will spend three weeks alongside two internationally renowned chefs – Julien Royer and Jeremy Chan – who were members of the jury in the previous edition of the competition. The mentoring program aims to provide valuable professional guidance and exchange of experiences, as well as additional motivation for young chefs who are considering applying.

Ardy Ferguson said of the mentoring program: “The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has been an unforgettable experience for me and has provided opportunities that I never dreamed of before. It is a great honor to learn from chefs whom I deeply respect – it allows me to further develop my professional skills.”

Julien Royer, founder and chef of Odette (Singapore) added: “The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy offers young people an extraordinary opportunity to test themselves on a global stage. The journey to the grand final is intense and challenging, but also extremely rewarding. It is also inspiring: it encourages participants to refine their technique, hone their vision and develop professionally and personally. The Academy creates an environment where talent is challenged, supported and given the space to truly flourish.”

Jeremy Chan, founder and chef of Ikoyi (London) restaurant, said: “What makes the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy special is its emphasis on individuality and conviction. Cooking at the highest level requires not only technical knowledge but also strong faith, and this competition gives talent the space and confidence to find their own voice. Supporting this process and working with chefs at a defining stage in their careers is incredibly inspiring.”

The seventh edition of the competition is open to chefs under 30 years of age from 16 February to 9 June 2026 on the official application form. Applicants must submit a signature dish that reflects their personal beliefs, technical proficiency and creativity.

As in previous editions, the first stage will select candidates who will advance to the 15 regional finals. The regional winners will then present their dishes in the grand finale before a prestigious jury of internationally renowned chefs. In addition to the main prize, participants are also eligible for three special prizes, which recognize social responsibility, connection to culinary heritage and the expression of personal convictions through food.

More information about the competition can be found at https://www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com/.