Morocco Set to Shine at Sirha Lyon 2025 with its Participation in the World Finals of the Bocuse d’Or, the World Pastry Cup, and Catering Competitions
Morocco is preparing to participate in the prestigious global finals of the Bocuse d’Or, the World Pastry Cup, and the World Catering Cup, which will take place at the Sirha exhibition in Lyon from January 23 to 27, 2025. These competitions represent the pinnacle of global gastronomy, and Morocco’s participation is a testament to the excellence and innovation of the culinary craftsmanship of the Kingdom.
The Moroccan teams were selected during the Official Chef Tournament (TOC Africa), held on September 12 and 13, 2024, in Marrakech, under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This continental selection process enabled Morocco to secure spots in these international finals, alongside other African nations such as Mauritius, in a highly competitive environment. The Rahal Group, a key player in promoting Moroccan gastronomy internationally since 2003, supported this initiative by organizing the selections and assisting the national teams.
Bocuse d’Or: Moroccan Culinary Art in the Global Spotlight
At the final of the Bocuse d’Or, Morocco will be represented by chef Yassine Bogdad, assisted by his commis Youssef Lamghani and coached by Ahmed Bem Semlali. The Moroccan team will be positioned in box 3 of the competition, where they will present culinary creations that highlight the richness of Moroccan terroir while meeting the international standards of this prestigious event. The Bocuse d’Or, held every two years, is regarded as the summit of global culinary art, where renowned chefs are invited to showcase their creativity and technical skills.
The World Pastry Cup: Sweet Creations Inspired by Moroccan Heritage
Simultaneously, Morocco will also participate in the World Pastry Cup, a globally recognized competition established in 1989. The Moroccan team will feature Rachid Ouakkas (a jury member), Omar Eddib (a specialist in sweet creations), Mohamed El Yazidi (a chocolate expert), and Mohamed Lamraoui (frozen creations). Their entry, inspired by the theme “National Heritage,” will blend tradition and innovation through frozen desserts, restaurant pastries, and artistic pieces made from sugar, chocolate, and ice. This competition will include participation from 18 countries, selected following continental qualifications, such as the Africa Pastry Cup held in Marrakech in September 2024.
The World Catering Cup: Celebrating Moroccan Hospitality
Morocco will also take part in the World Catering Cup, which showcases the art of hospitality and event gastronomy. The Moroccan team, composed of Mohamed Fadil Ouahhabi, Lahoucine Zaoui, and Lahcen Idouakrim, will compete on January 23 in this high-level competition. They will present refined buffets, dishes, and desserts that reflect the hospitality and conviviality that are valued in Moroccan culture. This event will bring together 12 global teams and will highlight innovation, sustainability, and excellence in culinary presentation.
Sirha Lyon: An Internationally Renowned Event
Held every two years, Sirha Lyon is a major event for professionals in the restaurant, hospitality, and food sectors. The previous edition attracted nearly 210,000 trade visitors from 152 countries, with 4,700 exhibitors spread over 140,000 square meters. This event covers 14 different sectors, ranging from furniture to food products, and serves as a meeting place for stakeholders in the global food industry.
Thus, the competitions of the Bocuse d’Or, World Pastry Cup, and World Catering Cup at Sirha Lyon 2025 will provide Morocco with the opportunity to showcase its culinary expertise on a global stage and strengthen its position among the great gastronomic nations.
