LAS VEGAS — The Baking Expo is a central hub for all things baking … including a little friendly competition.
Among the range of events held at the show, the Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie (World Cup of Baking) joined the International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE) for the Americas Selection, making its debut at the Expo. The competition brings together international baking teams from across the Western Hemisphere to compete in three categories: Boulangerie, Viennoiserie and Artistic Bread Showpiece.
Over the span of two days, five teams — which hailed from Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico and the US — were in full action, crafting their masterpieces in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Winners were announced at a ceremony on Sept. 16, with Team Canada taking home the gold, followed by Team USA and Team Brazil.
“Reaching the podium and winning at the Americas Selection in Las Vegas was a testament to pushing past exhaustion and doubt,” said Jason (Zhenkum) Wang of Team Canada. “This victory proves that hard work, passion and self-belief can take you further than you ever imagined.”
The top two teams, Canada and USA, will compete for the World Cup title January 2026 in Paris.
“These events are a true emotional journey for the bakers, who openly share the results of their hard work and preparation,” said William Leaman, coach of Team USA. “It is inspiring to see how each team responds to the challenges, especially after dedicating so much time and passion to their craft.”
By bringing the esteemed competition to the US, IBIE bridges a gap in the industry, bringing the art of baking to even more potential enthusiasts.
“The Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie represents the elite of the baking world,” said Romain Dufour of the Académie Culinaire de France (USA & Canada Delegation), organizers of the Coupe du Monde de la Boulangerie Americas Selection. “This competition drives global trends, fostering new techniques for bakers worldwide. It’s a unique opportunity to witness five teams competing in the Americas Selection to represent their countries in the most prestigious baking competition.”
