Jane Espante Wins 2026 World Cezve/Ibrik Championship in Dubai

Jane Espante of the UAE wins the 2026 World Cezve/Ibrik Championship in Dubai. The 2026 World Coffee Championships (WCC) season officially launched with the Cezve/Ibrik Championship. This was the first championship event of the year. The event took place from January 18 to 20, 2026. It was held as a centerpiece of World of Coffee Dubai.

The competition brought together specialists in one of coffee’s most ancient brewing methods. Competitors came from around the world. After three days of performances, Jane Espante (United Arab Emirates) won the title.

This report outlines the final results. It also explains why this event matters for the global coffee scene.

Championship Results: Jane Espante of the UAE Claims the Title

Jane Espante’s victory carried extra significance. A representative from the host nation took the top honor. This was notable in a competition rooted in Middle Eastern coffee heritage.

Her win highlights the Middle East’s expanding influence in the global coffee sector. It also reflects the depth of local talent. The title was announced on January 20, 2026. It was revealed during a live ceremony on the World of Coffee Dubai stage.

The final rankings were:

1. 1st Place: Jane Espante (United Arab Emirates)

2. 2nd Place: Angel Kotsifakis (Greece)

3. 3rd Place: Wael Hachem (France)

These results reflect the skill shown across the championship. The event celebrated both tradition and innovation.

What the Cezve/Ibrik Championship Represents

The Cezve/Ibrik Championship is a unique competition. It honors one of the world’s oldest coffee preparation methods. The event is also a global platform. It showcases technical precision and sensory excellence. At the same time, it highlights cultural expression.

The competition centers on the traditional brewing vessel called the cezve (or ibrik). It is a small pot with a long handle. It also has a distinctive flared brim. The vessel is often made from copper, brass, or ceramic.

This method has been used for centuries. It is common across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Competitors are expected to combine artistry with skill to produce an exceptional cup.

Khalid Al Mulla, National Coordinator of the UAE Coffee Championships, praised the competitors:

The Cezve/Ibrik Championship is a powerful celebration of coffee’s deep cultural roots and craftsmanship. The level of passion, skill, and respect for tradition shown by the competitors is truly inspiring. Congratulations to all the winners for honoring one of the oldest and most meaningful expressions of coffee culture.

By hosting the championship in Dubai, the event created a strong connection. It linked time-honored coffee tradition with the international stage of a modern trade show.

Venue: World of Coffee Dubai 2026

The championship was a headline feature of World of Coffee Dubai. The trade show hosted the competitive events known as the Dubai World Coffee Championships.

World of Coffee Dubai was held from January 18 – 20, 2026. It took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This year’s gathering was also the largest edition to date.

Dubai was a strategically powerful choice of location. The city is known as a global hub for innovation and trade. At the same time, the championship celebrated deep coffee heritage. That contrast strengthened the narrative of the event.

World of Coffee Dubai is produced by DXB Live. It is organized in close collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). This partnership has helped increase the event’s scale and influence.

Importantly, the Dubai event served as the official launchpad for the international competition season.

The 2026 World Coffee Championships Season Kick-off

The Cezve/Ibrik Championship officially started the 2026 WCC season. The series supports community-building and knowledge-sharing. It provides a global stage for coffee professionals. It also encourages craft, innovation, and collaboration.

After Dubai, the 2026 WCC season will continue with several major competitions:

• World Latte Art Championships: April in San Diego

• World Cup Tasters Championship: May in Bangkok

• Brewers Cup, Coffee in Good Spirits, and Roasters Championship: June in Brussels

• World Barista Championships: October in Panama City

These events set the roadmap for the year. They also build on the momentum created in Dubai.

Closing: A Strong Start to the Global Competition Year

The 2026 Cezve/Ibrik Championship delivered a memorable start to the global calendar. Jane Espante’s win was a defining highlight. It marked a major moment for the host nation and its coffee community.

More broadly, the event set the tone for the year. It grounded the competition season in cultural heritage. It also built a meaningful base for innovation and artistry across the competitions ahead.