Mauro Colagreco to lead The Roux Scholarship 2026
Argentinian chef and sustainability advocate Mauro Colagreco will lead the judging panel for the Roux Scholarship Final 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of the honorary role.
The Roux Scholarship has confirmed that Mauro, one of the world’s most influential chefs, will serve as Honorary President of Judges for the 2026 competition final.
The announcement marks a milestone moment for the scholarship, celebrating ten years since the honorary role was first introduced.
A global culinary leader
Born in Argentina, Mauro Colagreco is best known as the chef and founder of Mirazur in Menton, France - a restaurant that has redefined modern gastronomy through its fusion of French, Italian, and Latin American influences.
Since opening in 2006, Mirazur has earned global acclaim: its first Michelin star came within a year, its third by 2019, and that same year it was crowned No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Set in a 1930s modernist building overlooking the Mediterranean, Mirazur embodies Mauro’s vision of a cuisine deeply connected to nature. Sustainability lies at its heart - the restaurant became the world’s first to obtain Plastic Free Certification in 2020 and achieved B Corp certification in 2024, highlighting its commitment to circular gastronomy and environmental stewardship.
A chef shaping the future
Beyond Menton, Mauro now oversees more than 25 restaurants worldwide, including Mauro Colagreco at Raffles London at The OWO, reflecting his growing global influence.
His philosophy extends far beyond the plate: he was the first chef to be appointed a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Biodiversity in 2022 and serves as Vice President of Relais & Châteaux, leading the organisation’s World Culinary Council and sustainability initiatives.
That same year, the French government honoured him with the title Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur for his contribution to the country’s culinary and cultural landscape.
Inspiring
the next generation
Mauro said: “To guide, nurture, and celebrate the next generation of chefs is not only a privilege but a vital responsibility. To inspire and encourage young culinary talents is to plant seeds of imagination and passion that will blossom for decades. By fostering their creativity, curiosity, and dedication, we help shape the future of our craft and ensure that the spirit of excellence, innovation, and generosity continues to flourish in kitchens around the world.”
Endorsed by the Roux family
The Roux family welcomed Mauro’s appointment as a natural continuation of the scholarship’s mission to identify and mentor the most talented young chefs in the UK.
Alain Roux said: “It’s a privilege to welcome Mauro Colagreco as our Honorary President of the Judges for 2026. As one of the world’s most exciting and respected chefs, his global outlook, extraordinary achievements, and commitment to excellence embody the values of The Roux Scholarship.
“At Mirazur, his uniquely crafted contemporary Mediterranean cuisine celebrates the vegetables, fish and bounty of the French Riviera, as well as the meat and game of the Côte d’Azur, creating food that is nothing short of magical. His generosity and dedication to nurturing young talent will inspire our judges and help mentor the next generation of Roux Scholars.”
Michel Roux Jr added: “Our Honorary President of Judges Mauro Colagreco needs no introduction and it’s so exciting to have him with us for the Roux Scholarship final. I am fortunate enough to have dined at his beautiful destination restaurant in Menton where his philosophy and character shine through. His artistic flair and imagination mean that every plate is a feast for the eyes.”
A decade of global influence
Since its creation in 1984 by Michel Roux OBE and Albert Roux OBE, the Roux Scholarship has become one of the UK’s most prestigious culinary competitions, offering emerging chefs an unparalleled platform for professional development.
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Mauro Colagreco to lead The Roux Scholarship 2026
