The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition has officially opened applications for its seventh edition, inviting chefs under the age of 30 from around the world to showcase their culinary talents. Applications commenced on February 16, 2026, and will remain open for four months, allowing emerging chefs an opportunity to gain international recognition and support.
This competition is not merely a contest; it serves as a global platform dedicated to discovering and nurturing culinary talent. The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy aims to foster creativity and assist young chefs in establishing their unique culinary identities. Participants will benefit from mentorship opportunities and connections with influential figures in the gastronomy world, which can significantly enhance their professional trajectories.
Chefs from around the globe will be divided into 15 regions and evaluated by renowned experts from ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts. Following a rigorous selection process, shortlisted chefs will compete in 15 Regional Finals. Regional winners will then advance to the Grand Finale, where they will be assessed on three critical components: technical skill, creativity, and personal belief.
This edition introduces a new mentorship initiative, further reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to supporting chefs beyond the competition. Ardy Ferguson, the Global Winner of the 2024–25 edition, will engage in a dedicated mentorship experience. He will spend three weeks working alongside esteemed chefs Julien Royer and Jeremy Chan, both of whom served on the jury in the previous competition. This initiative aims to provide meaningful guidance and facilitate professional exchanges, serving as an inspiration for young chefs contemplating their application.
Reflecting on his experience, Ferguson remarked, “The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has been an unforgettable experience and has provided me with opportunities in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Being able to continue learning with chefs I admire so much is incredible, and it allows me to keep pushing my craft and building on everything the Academy offers as I continue to grow as a Chef.”
For those interested in participating, more information about the competition can be found at sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com. This initiative not only spotlights the culinary talents of the future but also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and professional development in the world of gastronomy.
S.Pellegrino continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering culinary excellence while promoting sustainability and responsible practices in the food industry.
