Indianapolis, IN (May 28, 2025) — The International Chili Society (ICS) announced today that it will rename its most prestigious award, given annually to the top Traditional Red chili cook at the World Championship Chili Cook-off (WCCC), in honor of the late and legendary Carol Hancock, who passed away earlier this year.

Beginning at this year’s championship event, set to take place October 16-19 in Indianapolis, Indiana, the top Traditional Red winner will receive the Carol Hancock Memorial Trophy, a newly established tribute that celebrates Carol’s unparalleled contributions to the world of competitive chili and her enduring legacy in the ICS community.

Known affectionately as the “Queen of Chili,” Hancock served as the long-time leader of ICS and was instrumental in guiding the organization through decades of growth, international expansion, and innovation. Her passion, perseverance, and dedication helped transform chili cook-offs from regional novelty events into a global celebration of culinary creativity and community.

“Carol Hancock was more than just a champion for chili—she was the heart and soul of the International Chili Society for decades,” said Mike McCloud, President of ICS and Founder of the World Food Championships, which now owns and operates the ICS. “Her unwavering commitment to excellence and community uplifted thousands of competitors and events around the world. Naming the top Traditional Red trophy in her honor is not only fitting, but it also ensures that her spirit lives on at the very core of every ICS championship for generations to come.”

Carol's dedication helped raise millions of dollars for charities, promoted chili as an American culinary tradition, and created a tightly knit global family of “chiliheads” united by friendly competition and flavorful traditions.

The Carol Hancock Memorial Trophy will be presented for the first time this fall to the Traditional Red Champion during the awards ceremony of the 58th Annual World Championship Chili Cook-off, to be held in the Blue Ribbon Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center.

This new honor stands as a lasting reminder of Carol’s influence, love for the chili community, and the leadership she exemplified throughout her life.

For updates on the 2025 World Championship Chili Cook-off and other ICS news, visit www.chilicookoff.com and follow the International Chili Society on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) (@ICSChili). 

About the International Chili Society

Legendary race car driver and automotive icon Carroll Shelby started the International Chili Society (ICS) in 1967 as a fun way to compete against his friends. Today, ICS sanctions more than 100 events a year nationwide with one mission – to continuously celebrate chili while raising money for charities and nonprofits. More than $100 million has been raised for charities by ICS over the past five decades and has been bringing people together over one of America's greatest culinary creations. For more information, visit chilicookoff.com.

About World Food Championships

The World Food Championships (WFC) is the premier food sport competition globally. This multi-day, live culinary event showcases some of the world's best cooks competing for food, fame, and fortune across multiple categories. Each year, thousands of teams vie for a coveted Golden Ticket at official qualifiers to earn their spot at WFC. Since its debut in 2012, the event has attracted participants from nearly 40 countries and every state in the U.S. The 2025 World Food Championships will take place October 16-19 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion, located at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in Indianapolis. For more information, visit WorldFoodChampionships.com.

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Michael Hand
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Phone: 585.348.1287, Email: mhand@worldfoodchampionships.com