The countdown has begun for the grand final of the ninth edition of the World Chocolate Masters, one of the world’s leading chocolate competitions. On October 26 and 27, 15 chefs will showcase their talent and skills in Antwerp, Belgium.

Under the theme “Play!”, the competition, organized by Cacao Barry, invites participants to play with ingredients, flavors, and textures to create a sensory experience that evokes fun and positivity. And that’s not all. The World Chocolate Masters also challenges contestants to use fresh, less processed nutrients that promote mental and physical well-being.

During the final, the contestants will have to overcome five challenges. The first is a 60- to 90-second presentation explaining the common thread that connects all their creations. The second: create two distinct bonbons that express the spirit and diversity of Antwerp through flavor and design, each with its own character, but designed to complement each other. The third: a designer chocolate piece that reflects the essence of Play & Taste, not through flavor, but through design, composition, and craftsmanship. The fourth: create from scratch a fresh chocolate cake that expresses the concept of movement and transformation through flavor. And fifth: an avant-garde chocolate gift that people will not only want to taste, but also share and show off.

In the last edition, held in 2022, Lluc Crusellas became the youngest chef to win the World Chocolate Masters.