FAQs
What is FUTURE ICONS?
A bartender competition celebrating the next generation of talent, classic cocktails, and the riffs that could become the next icons. You'll submit two serves, show your craft in bar, then compete at national and regional finals for strong industry recognition and an epic European 'Spirit Trail' trip.
Why join FUTURE ICONS?
To gain visibility on a global scale, grow your skills and compete with the next generation of top bartenders.
Who can enter?
Anyone based in the participating countries, above the required age (see T&Cs) and legally allowed to work there. You'll also need genuine love for classic cocktails and the drive to elevate them.
Do I need to work in a bar?
Yes. You must be working in a bar and able to actively showcase the programme during the promotion phase.
Not in one of those countries yet?
More countries will be added from next year.
How do I enter?
Complete the online form. You'll share your details, your bar's info, a Classic Cocktail using a Bacardi brand and your FUTURE ICONS Cocktail with recipe, method and a photo.
What do I have to create?
Two drinks. First, a Classic Cocktail using one of our brands that must feature on your bar menu (permanent or temporary) throughout the promotion. The full list of eligible classics is available in the submission form. Second, your FUTURE ICONS Cocktail. This doesn't have to be a riff on the classic serve you submitted. You may use the pre-selected base spirit, but you're free to use any Bacardi brand to compliment your serve.
Any rules on recipes?
Yes. Each drink must include at least 30 ml of a specified Bacardi brand and no more than 7 (seven) ingredients including the spirit & the garnish - ice do not count. Homemade elements need simple, replicable sub-recipes.
Which brands can I use?
The lead brand must be from the Bacardi portfolio and dominant by volume in your recipe. Any additional spirits must also be from the Bacardi group and sourced via appointed distributors. No non-Bacardi spirits should appear in your photos or assets.
Any content guidelines I should know?
Keep it legal, tasteful and responsible. No glamorising misuse of alcohol, no offensive names or imagery, no targeting under the legal drinking age and no IP infringement. Full content standards are in the T&Cs.
In which language should I submit?
FUTURE ICONS is a global programme, so submissions should be in English. Local adaptations may apply depending on the market.
What happens after I submit?
A panel will review all entries, and if you're selected, you'll hear from them after the closing date. Secret shoppers may visit participating bars in each market to taste your cocktails, check presentation, technique, efficiency and garnish, and see how visible and recommended your serve is on the menu, back bar and social media.
What are the judging criteria?
Creativity, understanding of classics, execution and brand integration (see T&Cs for full details).
When are the national finals?
- India: 30 November 2026
- China: 15 December 2026
- Israel: 28 December 2026
- Japan: 21 January 2027
- Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, United Arab Emirates: 4 February 2027
- Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan: 6 February 2027
Where does the regional final happen and when?
Singapore, 15 to 19 March 2027. It's a five-day mix of education, culture and two showdowns: the Individual Final and the Team Challenge - judged separately.
Do I need to be able to travel?
Yes. You must be able to travel to Singapore for the Regional Final if you qualify. If you win the big prize, you'll also travel to Europe for the 'Spirit Trail,' so you'll need a valid passport and the ability to obtain a visa. We'll support visa applications, but getting the visa remains your responsibility.
What can I win?
The national winner per country will receive a trophy and head to Singapore for the Regional Final. At the regional level there are two top outcomes. The FUTURE ICONS global champion wins a trip to Europe plus invites, guest shifts, a judging spot for next year's final (details TBC). The Team Challenge winners also win the trip to Europe & guest shift exposure. If the individual winner is also on the winning team, the extra Europe spot is not reassigned.
When is the Europe trip?
Tentatively 22 to 28 May 2027, covering flights to Europe, accommodation and meals during official programming included. You'll handle personal travel insurance, any extras and any taxes due.
Can someone compete on my behalf if I can't make it?
No. Entries are personal and non-transferable.
How will you use my entry content?
Your content may be used by the promoter for communication and promotion of the programme (see T&Cs for details).