Vietnam’s Le Quang Cuong (Nicky) has been crowned the 2026 World Cup Tasters Champion in Thailand.
Becoming victorious with seven correct tastings in the final round, and with a timing of 3:35, Nicky was followed by Catherine Queiroz, representing Switzerland, and Mehmet Sogan, representing the United States.
Held as part of World of Coffee Bangkok, the 2026 World Cup Tasters Championship took place from May 7 to 9 at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre.
“Nicky rose above the field, demonstrating exceptional speed, accuracy, and mastery of smell, taste, and attention to claim the title,” says the Specialty Coffee Association.
Forty-six competitors from around the world showcased their sensory skills, with each round requiring competitors to identify the odd cup among triangulations of three in as little time as possible.
Australian champion Karl Lee finished 34th in the preliminary round, correctly identifying seven out of eight triangulations in 5:32 – showcasing the strength of the entire field.
August Hislop, who was representing New Zealand, finished 22nd in the preliminary round, correctly identifying seven out of eight triangulations in 3:25.
