'Team UK can reach the top': Clare Smyth takes over as president of Bocuse d'Or UK
Clare Smyth, of the three Michelin-starred Clare by Core Smyth in London, has been appointed president of Bocuse d'Or UK.
The chef, who was named global ambassador for the competition in 2021, has taken over the presidency from Simon Rogan, who succeeded Brian Turner in 2018.
She has revealed her determination to boost Team UK's chances of winning the contest, which was started in 1987 by chef Paul Bocuse.
Smyth said: "After witnessing the UK team's ambition and skill at this year's Bocuse d'Or World Final, earning them 7th place amongst the world's best chefs, I am honoured to accept the prestigious role of team president. The opportunity is there for Britain to be regarded as one of the best in global gastronomy.
"Team UK undoubtedly has the ability to reach the top, but to do so, we need more investment. Similar to Olympic athletes, this would allow the chefs to dedicate more of their time to train and to practise for the Bocuse d'Or, which we know is a key contributor to the success of the winning teams."
Rogan added: "It's been a pleasure and a privilege to lead the UK Team as president and I'm proud of what the team has achieved. It's been a rewarding four years and I'm looking forward to continuing my involvement albeit in a different capacity."
Further changes to Team UK include Adam Bennett of the Cross at Kenilworth, who is also the UK's most successful Bocuse d'Or candidate to date, taking over as technical director from John Williams of the Ritz London.
Bocuse d'Or UK will recruit and train the next UK candidate and commis chef following a national selection process in June.
The new team will compete in the Bocuse d'Or European selection, which will take place in Tronehem, Norway, between March 19 and 20, 2024.
Andreas Antona, chairman of the Bocuse d'Or UK Academy, said: "Having two of the UK's three Michelin starred chefs on the team demonstrates that we are a serious contender and with Clare's ambition and experience we are looking at a new era in Bocuse d'Or UK and aiming to achieve that elusive placing on the podium."
The Bocuse d'Or competition takes place every two years in Lyon, France, and invites chefs from across the world to participate in the two-day contest.
