Miguel Sánchez, a Cuban pizza maestro, claimed the second prize this Wednesday at the World Pizza Championship held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This marks the first time that pizza masters from countries including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Italy, Uruguay, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Senegal, Sweden, and Venezuela have competed in a Latin American nation for this prestigious culinary award.
The World Pizza and Empanada Championship featured various competition categories and saw participation from over 174 chefs. The first place was awarded to Argentine chef Daniel Gabrielli, earning him the title of World Pizza Champion and a trip to Parma, Italy, to compete in the 32nd edition of the World Pizza Championship in 2025. The third place was secured by Venezuelan pizzaiolo Diego Borges.
"This inaugural championship allowed for the incorporation of different categories and specialties of pizza that are already internationally recognized. The classic mozzarella pizza and the 'fugazzeta' were the stars," said Lorena Fernández, president of the Association of Pizzerias and Empanada Houses of Argentina (APYCE).
Who is Cuban Pizza Maestro Miguel Sánchez?
Miguel Sánchez, a resident of Argentina for 19 years, has been making waves in the culinary world since 2019. With the support of his Argentine-Cuban partner Elena Beatriz Dorrego and their bold culinary proposals, he has participated in various events. In 2022, he won fourth place in the Panamerican Pizza Championship held in Buenos Aires, where 150 pizza masters from across the region competed.
Sánchez left Cuba at a young age. In an interview, he described his emigration as a devastating experience but one that allowed him to develop his warrior spirit and thrive. Although his journey abroad has not been a bed of roses, his passion and dedication to pizza have enabled him to achieve excellence in his craft and earn a prestigious place with his creations.
His story is one of resilience and adaptation, reminding us that success comes with perseverance.
Insights on the World Pizza Championship and Miguel Sánchez
Here are some frequently asked questions about the World Pizza Championship and Miguel Sánchez, providing deeper insights into the event and the chef’s journey.
What is the World Pizza Championship?
The World Pizza Championship is an international competition where pizza chefs from various countries compete to showcase their skills and win prestigious awards in multiple categories.
Who is Miguel Sánchez?
Miguel Sánchez is a Cuban pizza chef who has lived in Argentina for 19 years. He has gained recognition in the culinary world for his innovative pizza creations and has won several awards, including second place at the World Pizza Championship in Buenos Aires.
What categories were featured in the World Pizza and Empanada Championship?
The championship featured various categories, including classic mozzarella pizza and 'fugazzeta,' among other internationally recognized pizza specialties.
What is the Association of Pizzerias and Empanada Houses of Argentina (APYCE)?
APYCE is an organization in Argentina that represents pizzerias and empanada houses, and it played a significant role in organizing the World Pizza and Empanada Championship.