MasterChef: The Professionals 2026 – Essential Insights on the Chefs

MasterChef: The Professionals has returned to BBC One for its 18th series, introducing new judge Matt Tebbutt. This exciting season will feature 32 professional chefs from across the UK, vying for the honor of becoming the 19th champion. The competition unfolds over seven weeks and includes various culinary challenges.

Competition Format

The series features a range of tasks designed to test the skills of the contestants. Key challenges include:

• Signature Skills Test, evaluated by previous champions and finalists.
• Cooking a two-course menu for food critics in the quarter-finals.
• Creating a No Waste Dish during the semi-finals.
• Finalists delivering a menu at the Michelin-starred Dining Room at the Goring.

The grand finale takes contestants to Italy, where they will cook for renowned chef Norbert Niederkofler in South Tyrol, showcasing their culinary best.

Judges’ Expectations

Judge Monica Galetti expressed her enthusiasm, stating that she expects to discover exceptional talent throughout the season. Marcus Wareing emphasized the high standards required in this competition, while Matt Tebbutt shared his anticipation for the chefs’ creative cooking.

Who Are the Chefs on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026?

Meet some of the talented chefs competing this year:

• Emma Hanley, 40 – Chef de Cuisine at Commons Club, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, she emphasizes seasonal, local produce in her menu.
• Ismail Hossain, 33 – Head Chef at The Stag, Hampstead, London. Ismail began as a kitchen porter and has worked in various restaurants across London.
• Mario Pérez Reyes, 38 – Private Chef and Head Chef at Nomadic Dinners in Gerrards Cross. He hails from Seville and specializes in open-fire cooking.
• Terry Davies, 38 – Head Chef at Tickled Trout Inn, York. A self-taught chef, he has experience working with notable chefs and in various establishments.
• Haydn Payne, 25 – Junior Sous Chef at Prince Arthur, London. Trained at Capital City College and has experience at Gordon Ramsay’s Pétrus and Michelin-starred Trinity.
• Gemma Ellis, 36 – Chef-owner of Clifford’s, City of London. A Le Cordon Bleu graduate known for her Italian-focused restaurant.
• Luke Emmess, 33 – Head Chef at Wykeham Arms, Winchester. A culinary arts graduate specializing in pastry and larder.
• Sel Bracamonte, 35 – Private Chef. Originally from Guatemala, he has worked with elite athletes and acclaimed chefs, including Heston Blumenthal.

This season promises to uncover remarkable culinary talent. Viewers can look forward to a compelling journey of skill, creativity, and passion on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026.