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Gelato World Cup 2026: A Culinary Extravaganza

The Gelato World Cup is not just a competition; it is a celebration of culinary artistry where the best gelato masters from around the globe challenge each other. As the anticipation builds for the upcoming SIGEP World 2026, set to take place at the Rimini Expo Centre from January 16 to January 20, 2026, this year promises to be particularly special.

The SIGEP World will not only host the renowned Gelato World Cup but also the Juniores Pastry World Cup, offering a platform for young pastry chefs to shine in the international spotlight. The event is expected to set new benchmarks in culinary creativity, showcasing an array of delicious gelato flavors that blend tradition and innovation.

One exciting feature of the event will be the Pizza (R)evolution project, which aims to explore and innovate the world of pizza, highlighting new synergies among ingredients, technologies, and consumption formats. This is sure to attract pizza enthusiasts, as it will demonstrate how traditional recipes can be reimagined with modern twists.

Additionally, coffee lovers will not be left out, as the Innovation Bar will provide an immersive experience focused on the evolution of coffee shops worldwide. From brewing techniques to presentation, this space will highlight the integral role coffee plays in today's dining landscape.

India as the Guest Country

Complementing the main attractions, India has been invited as the guest country for the 2026 event. This prestigious recognition reflects India's growing influence in the global culinary scene. India will have a significant role at the SIGEP World, expected to introduce unique flavors and techniques, enhancing the diverse gastronomic experiences available.

Corrado Peraboni, the CEO of Italian Exhibition Group, noted that the previous year's exhibition featured 1,300 brands from 33 countries, attracting a professional audience from 160 nations. As the international interest continues to grow, the strategical focus for 2026 has deepened, with enhanced internationalization efforts planned.

Marco Carniello, CBO of IEG, shared insights about the kickoff events leading up to the 2026 SIGEP World. A special roadshow will launch on November 6, 2025, at the Italian Embassy in Madrid, engaging the Spanish food service sector and creating excitement around the forthcoming showcase.

To facilitate increased engagement, new direct flight connections between Munich and Rimini are set to be introduced, ensuring ease of access for international participants and visitors.

Gelato Meets Chains: A Strategic Initiative

Another highlight will be "Gelato Meets Chains," a strategic initiative to encourage the incorporation of gelato into menus worldwide. The project includes webinars and digital meetings for selected buyers, focusing on the economic and operational advantages of adding gelato options to dining menus. This approach aligns with the ongoing trend of premiumization within the food sector, encouraging establishments to offer distinctive and high-quality experiences.

Flavia Morelli, head of the Food & Beverage Division at IEG, explains that this project aims to equip business owners with tools and insights to elevate their offerings, benefiting both profits and customer satisfaction.

The Gelato World Cup will reaffirm its status as a leading authority in artisanal gastronomy with initiatives like SIGEP Vision and the prestigious "Lorenzo Cagnoni" Innovation Award. Additionally, a space dedicated to startups will foster discussions on the future of gastronomy, encouraging innovation and creativity.

In summary, the SIGEP World 2026 promises to be a landmark event filled with creativity, delicious flavors, and collaborations from around the globe. As culinary talents come together in Italy, attendees can look forward to witnessing the best in gelato, pastry arts, pizza, and coffee evolution, making it an unmissable experience for food enthusiasts everywhere.