New Season of MasterChef to Kick Off in Santillana, Spain

Exciting news for food enthusiasts and fans of the popular cooking competition, as the new season of MasterChef is set to begin in the picturesque town of Santillana, located in the Cantabria region of Spain.

Dates and Location

The highly anticipated new season will commence in the historic town of Santillana, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. While the exact dates for the start of the season have not been officially announced, it is expected to follow the traditional spring schedule, similar to previous years.

Judges and Format

The new season will once again feature the esteemed judging panel consisting of Jordi Cruz, Pepe Rodríguez, and Samantha Vallejo-Nágera. These renowned chefs have been a cornerstone of the show, providing constructive criticism and guidance to the contestants. The format is expected to remain largely unchanged, with contestants facing various culinary challenges and eliminations that will test their skills, creativity, and endurance.

Previous Seasons' Highlights

In recent years, MasterChef has continued to captivate audiences with its diverse range of contestants and innovative challenges. For instance, the 12th season of MasterChef, which started in April 2024, saw 50 aspiring chefs competing in the initial rounds, with only 23 making it to the main competition. The season featured notable guest judges, including Martín Berasategui and Raquel Meroño, and unique challenges such as cooking at the foot of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona[3].

Celebrity and Junior Editions

In addition to the main season, MasterChef also hosts celebrity and junior editions that have garnered significant attention. The ninth season of MasterChef Celebrity, which began in September 2024, featured a star-studded lineup including Cristina Cifuentes, Pitingo, Marina Rivers, and several other well-known figures from Spanish entertainment. Meanwhile, MasterChef Junior 11 is set to air during the holiday season, with 16 young contestants, including Sophie from Toledo, competing to showcase their culinary talents[2][4].

What to Expect

This new season in Santillana promises to bring a fresh and exciting twist to the competition. Contestants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local cuisine and culture of Cantabria, known for its seafood, cheeses, and traditional dishes such as cocido montañés. The scenic backdrop of Santillana will undoubtedly add a unique charm to the show, making it a must-watch for both local and international audiences.

As the new season approaches, fans of MasterChef are eagerly anticipating the announcement of the contestants and the specific challenges they will face. With its blend of culinary expertise, stunning locations, and engaging format, this season is set to be another thrilling installment of the beloved cooking competition.