What Happened
Ciao Ragazzi once again represented Panama at the Pizza World Championship in Parma, Italy, one of the most prestigious competitions in the global pizza industry. More than 800 pizzaiolos from around the world took part in the event, which is known for its emphasis on technique, quality, and innovation.
The Panamanian team delivered its strongest result in the gluten-free category, placing 10th in the world and finishing first in Latin America. That performance put Ciao Ragazzi among the top 10 pizza competitors globally in one of the contest’s most demanding divisions.
Strong Results Across Multiple Categories
Ciao Ragazzi also posted notable results in two other categories. In Pizza in Pala, the team finished 18th worldwide, securing a spot in the global top 50 and ranking second in Latin America. In the Classic Pizza category, it placed 63rd in the world, earning a place in the global top 100 and ranking ninth in Latin America.
Those placements reflect a broader rise for the Panamanian pizza brand on the international stage. The competition in Parma brings together leading professionals who work with different dough styles, cooking methods, and ingredient selections, making each ranking a sign of both technical skill and consistency.
Why The Recognition Matters
For Panama, the result adds another example of a local culinary name earning visibility abroad. The achievement also reinforces the growing role of specialty food competitions in highlighting the country’s food businesses beyond the domestic market.
Ciao Ragazzi’s progress follows an earlier recognition in Naples, where the team received the Pizza Stellata award. That distinction helped raise the brand’s profile in Italy, the home of pizza, and positioned it for further international exposure, including an invitation to participate in the Sanremo 2026 festival.
A Broader Push For Quality
Competing at this level requires more than a finished product on the plate. It demands refinement in dough preparation, ingredient selection, and production standards, all of which are central to international pizza judging. Ciao Ragazzi’s results suggest a continued focus on training, research, and product development.
By placing among the best in the world, the team has strengthened its image as a Panamanian business with international ambitions. The performance also underscores how local culinary brands can build prestige by measuring themselves against the highest global standards.