World Pesto Championship

The final of the 11th edition will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Genoa, in the splendid setting of the Salone del Gran Consiglio in the Palazzo Ducale. The event will begin in the morning with the preliminary heats and conclude in the afternoon with the announcement of the winner.

Yes, access to the Palazzo Ducale to watch the competition is free and open to all, subject to availability. It’s a unique opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of the challenge and the scent of fresh basil.

The Championship is open to everyone: culinary professionals, amateurs, or simply enthusiasts from all over the world, as long as they are 18 years old or older.

Registration opened at midnight on December 10, 2025. To apply, fill out the form on the official website pestochampionship.it. Hurry: there are only 100 spots available (a portion of which is reserved for the winners of the local qualifying competitions).

Absolutely! The Championship celebrates the internationality of pesto. Every year, competitors from every continent participate, from the United States to Japan.

The recipe is the official one of the Championship. All ingredients are provided by the organization to ensure a level playing field:

• Basilico Genovese DOP
• Italian pine nuts
• Garlic from Vessalico (Imperia)
• Parmigiano Reggiano DOP
• Fiore Sardo DOP (Pecorino)
• Sea salt from the Trapani salt pans
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil DOP from the Ligurian Riviera

Yes, it’s permitted (and often recommended out of custom) to bring your own marble mortar and wooden pestle, as long as they conform to tradition. Alternatively, the organization can provide one upon request.

Each participant has 40 minutes to complete their mortar and pestle sauce.

The jury, composed of expert gastronomes and chefs, evaluates 5 parameters:

1. Manual skills: the technique in using the mortar.
2. Appearance: Bright green color.
3. Fineness: the consistency of the grind.
4. Consistency: the density of the mixture.
5. Balance: the balance of flavors between garlic, cheese, and basil.

The first place winner receives the prestigious Golden Pestle (an olive wood pestle with a gold-wrapped handle) and the official title of World Champion.