Habanos World Challenge: Knowledge, Technique and Experience
Next is the improvisation round: in the thematic presentation test, the contestants have only five minutes to prepare a presentation on a randomly assigned topic. Whether it’s brands, product launches, or tasting experiences, what counts is the ability to structure, communicate, and persuade the jury.
Tension reaches its peak during the blind pairing challenge, where participants must identify a Habano and suggest the ideal beverage to accompany it—all without knowing anything about the cigar or the available drink options until the last moment. This round tests not only the palate but also the intuition and creativity of each contestant.
As a grand finale, each pair shares their #MyUniqueHabanosMoment: a personal, emotional, and authentic story that explains why they are there. Because in the end, beyond points and rounds, the Habanos World Challenge is a celebration of the deep and unique bond each person has with a Habano.
A Global-Flavored Challenge
Since its inception in 2018, the Habanos World Challenge has become a milestone event that transcends borders.
Throughout its six editions, countries such as Spain, Lebanon, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, Greece, Colombia, Kuwait, Curaçao, and Canada have fielded top-level teams. One of the most surprising moments came from Canada, which—during its very first appearance in the fifth edition in 2024—took home first place. A brilliant debut that reaffirmed the global reach of this passion.
Since the beginning of the contest in 2018, the following teams have been crowned champions:
– 2018 – Cyprus: Raffi Der Garabedian y Alexis Tsielepis
– 2019 – Italy: Aurelio Tufano y Giulio Amaturo
– 2020 – United Arab Emirates: Tarek Gamayel y Fadi Hammad
– 2023 – Greece: Antonis Pasparakis y Efthimios Karachristianidis
– 2024 – Canada: Philp Ramos y Aaron Ignacio
– 2025 – Curaçao: Alexei Vladimir Sleur y Matthew Edward Castillo
The Habanos World Challenge not only reinforces the cultural dimension of the Habano but also brings together aficionados from around the globe, celebrating the art of enjoying it as a complete and refined experience. An initiative that goes beyond rivalry; a tribute to a living tradition that continues to inspire new generations.
The path to the next edition is already underway and, once again, it will take place within the iconic Festival del Habano. In the coming months, Habanos Exclusive Distributors will organize local selection phases in their respective markets, calling upon the most knowledgeable and passionate connoisseurs to take part in one of the most representative events in the world of Habanos.
