The country's most famous kitchen has a new champion: Ian Lucas was crowned champion of MasterChef Celebrity Argentina after a thrilling final against Sofía “La Reini” Gonet. The finale, aired on Telefe, kept the audience on the edge of their seats. After two intense days, both finalists had to showcase their talent with a demanding three-course menu: appetizer, main course, and dessert. The final had an unexpected moment that shook both the studio and the audience. In the middle of the finale, judge Donato de Santis interrupted the competition to announce he is leaving the show after more than a decade as a main judge. The renowned Italian chef asked host Wanda Nara for the floor and surprised everyone with an emotional message. I have decided that this will be my last participation,” he said, looking into the camera. The announcement took both the host and the finalists, Ian Lucas and Sofía “La Reini” Gonet, by surprise, as they were in the decisive stage of the competition. During his farewell, Donato dedicated special words to his fellow judges, Damián Betular and Germán Martitegui. They are my companions in life and in gastronomy, and in this square we are in, he said. After hearing his name, Ian Lucas celebrated the achievement that crowns months of effort within the competition. Under Wanda Nara's hosting, the season came to an end with a finale that lived up to expectations, once again consolidating the success of the format on Argentine television. In addition to the trophy, Ian won the grand prize of 50 million pesos, becoming the new owner of the golden apron and the main protagonist of the 2025/26 edition. The verdict was made by the jury composed of Donato de Santis, Damián Betular, and Germán Martitegui, who evaluated every detail of the dishes before announcing the winner. Ian managed to stand out with a solid proposal in terms of technique and concept, which ultimately tipped the scales in his favor against the innovative style of “La Reini,” whose performance also received praise from the jury throughout the competition.
