Bringing Hospitality Excellence to the Global Stage
Team USBG represents the very best of American bartending in international competition. Selected through the United States Cocktail Championship, these bartenders carry the United States forward as the official U.S. representatives to the International Bartenders Association.
From the Pan-American Cocktail Championship to the World Cocktail Competition, Team USBG competes against the top bartenders from more than 70 countries—bringing precision, creativity, and professionalism to the global stage.
👉 Learn how bartenders qualify through the USCC ›
Recent International Highlights
Team USBG continues to deliver standout performances around the world:
- Felipe Castro captured the title of 2025 Lotus Prestige Classic Cup Champion, showcasing exceptional skill on an international platform.
- Competing in the Classic Division, Member-At-Large Philip Trinh earned Third Place among an elite global field.
- Liz Rodriguez will represent Team USBG at the IA Queens of Bartending Global Female Championship in Havana, Cuba.
26th Mattoni Grand Drink 2026 – Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic
Team USBG has nominated Rob Husted to represent the United States at the 26th Mattoni Grand Drink, the IBA World Championship in non-alcoholic cocktail mixing, taking place May 1–3, 2026 in Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic. Rob earned the nomination following his standout performance in the Zero Proof Tourism Cup at the 2025 Pan-American Cocktail Championships.
Each IBA Member Guild was invited to submit one competitor for the Qualifying Round, with 20 finalists selected to advance to the global final. Competitors are challenged to create an innovative, low-calorie (under 65 kcal/100ml) non-alcoholic cocktail using original Grand Mattoni Mineral Water. Finalists will compete for a $10,000 grand prize, along with awards for technique, innovation, and design.
We are awaiting confirmation of Rob’s selection as one of the 20 finalists and are proud to support him as he carries the Team USBG banner forward.
What It Takes to Represent the United States
Competing internationally requires:
- Intensive preparation and training
- Travel and lodging across continents
- Entry and federation fees
- Logistical and administrative coordination
- Professional representation on behalf of the Guild and the United States
Team USBG is not a single event. It is an ongoing commitment to excellence.
Champion Team USBG
Contributions directly support the bartenders representing the United States on the world stage. Your support helps sustain:
- Global competition participation
- Training and preparation
- Professional development
- International representation of American bartending
👉 Become a Sponsor of Team USBG ›
The Journey to the Global Stage
Every Team USBG member begins their journey through the United States Cocktail Championship. If you are interested in competing or supporting future representatives, Explore the United States Cocktail Championship ›