Robert Cauchi will next week represent Malta in the Bocuse D'Or, which is regarded as the Formula 1 Race for chefs worldwide.

Mr Cauchi, an executive sous chef working in Jersey, was drawn to compete on Tuesday in the first part of the two-day competition that will see 20 of the best European chefs meeting in Stavanger, Norway.

This is the first edition of Bocuse D'Or Europe, a sort of semi-final where the best 12 (including pre-qualified countries) will qualify for the World Championship in Lyon next year. This is the first time Malta is being represented in Bocuse D'Or, together with the other new entries Estonia, Hungary and the Czech Republic. Norwegian salmon and lamb are the raw materials the chefs must use to prepare their dishes.

Each participant will have to serve 12 portions, 10 to judges and two to special guests. Dishes have to be served hot and the judges will take into consideration the taste, temperature and presentation.

Mr Cauchi, a former student at the Institute of Tourism Studies, is being supported by the Malta Catering Food Association.