The successful bid to host this event, which is held every two years, involved months of work and lobbying by the Culinary Association of Wales (CAW) and partners ICC Wales, the Celtic Manor Resort and the Welsh Government.

It’s the second time that Team Wales has sought to host Worldchefs Congress & Expo, having previously lost to Singapore by just four votes two years ago when bidding for the 2024 event.

Arwyn Watkins, OBE, CAW president, said: “This is a significant landmark event for Wales. It’s the culinary equivalent of Wales hosting the football World Cup finals. We are delighted to have received the support of 28 countries around the world, including all the home nations. I thank Worldchefs for conducting an open and transparent voting process and Italy for a fair and close contest.

“Wales has won the event on merit. The hard work starts now to maximise this huge opportunity that has been awarded to Wales. The congress theme will be ‘Pasture, Passion, Plate’ and how the event benefits future generations. 

“We have a provisional event date of May 2026 because we want to ensure that it runs while colleges across the United Kingdom are open and that they are all engaged. That has to be the legacy of this event. The hospitality industry has taken a hammering in the last few years and we want to raise awareness about the rewarding career opportunities that are available within it.”