Congratulations to the 2026 World Latte Art Champion, Bala representing the Competition Body of Chinese Taipei!
The winner of the 2026 World Latte Art Champion is Bala, representing the Competition Body from Chinese Taipei! With pinpoint technique, compelling storytelling, and an impeccably poured cup, Bala delivered a performance that honored artistry in coffee.
The finalists ranking for the 2026 World Latte Art Championship are as follows, each competitor representing their respective regional Competition Bodies:
Bala, representing Chinese Taipei
Jacky Chang, representing Malaysia
Zking (Zhang Yuanyi), representing China
Bank Sarawut, representing Thailand
Jay Kim, representing South Korea
Tatsuya Ishibashi, representing Japan
Bala rose to the top of the competition with precise execution and thoughtful presentation, and presented a series of cups that was a true celebration of latte art. His performance set a new standard for creativity and technical excellence at this year’s championship.
Congratulations also goes to Eduardo Olímpio, representing the Competition Body of Brazil, on winning the inaugural people’s choice award. Across the competition, all 33 competitors participated in the Art Bar, where they showcased latte art designs of their choosing. The public cast votes for their favorite piece, and the Art Bar winner, received a complimentary trip to World of Coffee Panama to continue celebrating creativity within the specialty coffee community.
A huge congratulations to World Latte Art Champion Bala, people’s choice award winner Eduardo Olímpio, and to all of the amazing competitors who took part in this year’s competition.
A special thank you to Qualified Espresso Machine sponsor, Thermoplan AG, and Club House, California Dairies Inc. with California Milk Advisory Board, Pacific Barista Series, The Force Tamper, and Puly Caff for their support this year’s World Latte Art Competition! A special thank you to Qualified Espresso Machine sponsor, Thermoplan, and Club House, Real California Milk, Pacific Barista Series, The Force Tamper, and pulyCAFF for their support this year’s World Latte Art Competition!
