Over the weekend, Bosidales of Canary Wharf proudly hosted the UK Final & British Open for the 2025 Cigar Smoking World Championship. This event attracted cigar newbies, enthusiasts and aficionados from all corners of the country, eager to compete in one of the most unique and refined contests in the world: the art of slow smoking.

About the championship

The Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) has been celebrated annually since its inception in November 2010 when the very first competition took place in Split, Croatia. This is the creation of the unstoppable force that is Marko Bilic.

Over the years, it has evolved into a globally recognised celebration of cigar culture, bringing together cigar smokers from more than 50 countries. The year 2025 marks the CSWC’s 16th anniversary, a notable milestone in its ongoing legacy 🎉.

The slow smoking competition

This championship is not just about slow speed, it emphasises stamina, control, and poise. Each contestant is given the same cigar—the Oliva Mareva—in previous years, different competition cigars included brands such as Rocky Patel, Macanudo, and Montecristo.

Participants must keep their cigar lit for as long as possible without relighting or breaking any competition rules (including no dropping of the ash for the first 40 minutes) . The winner is simply the last one left with a burning cigar.

The Oliva Mareva, measuring 5 1/8 x 42 and classified as a Mareva vitola, features a Nicaraguan filler and binder with an Ecuadorian wrapper.

How it works

The journey to the finals begins with regional heats held across the UK. Various venues up and down the country hosts its own qualifying round, allowing the top performers to advance to the UK Final.

Additionally, the British Open offers all participants—regardless of their prior placement—a second chance to showcase their skills.

2025 UK Final & British Open – Results

Here are the official results from the UK Final & British Open, showcasing how long each participant managed to keep their cigar lit:

1st place: Etan Patel – 2:00:00
Etan displayed exceptional control and could have potentially surpassed the three-hour mark. However, in a true show of camaraderie, he decided to conclude early to allow more time for the awards ceremony and evening socialising before the venue closed.

2nd place: Evgeny Kheyna – 1:37:12
After a debut at last years UK final, Evgeny returned and gave a strong performance that solidified his standing among the UK’s elite.

3rd place: Lee Redman – 1:21:05
Lee maintained a steady and calm pace, earning his spot on the podium. His son Spike also took part.

Prizes

Winners received prizes, including luxurious St-Dupont and Bosquet-Paris accessories, as well as a prestigious wristwatch to celebrate their achievements.

My experience

I had an amazing time attending this event as a spectator this year, even though I sadly can’t make it to the final in Croatia 😭. Last year, it was my mum’s 80th birthday, and this year it’s my brother’s 50th—both falling on the same weekend as the final! So, 2026 will be my year to watch closely. It was also wonderful to meet so many people at the event 🙏.

Huge kudos to Marko Bilic, Scott Vines (Tor Imports representing Oliva and Les Fines Lames), and the UK judges Sarah Saunders, David Taylor, and Alessandro Meyer for doing a phenomenal job running this spectacular event!

And here’s a little video montage from the event:

What’s next? The CSWC Grand Final in Croatia

The adventure continues with the CSWC Grand Final, scheduled to take place in Split, Croatia, from August 29 to 31, 2025, presented by Oliva Cigars. This three-day event will not only cap off a global competition but also serve as a lavish celebration of cigar culture.

Official schedule:

Friday, August 29

• 18:00 – Spirits & Cocktails: Welcome Moments
• 20:00 – Cigar Gala Dinner with music by DJ Matthew Bee
  Dress Code: Smart Casual

Saturday, August 30
Morning Events:

• 11:00 – Relaxation workshops, tastings, pairings, and global product premieres
• 13:00 – Champagne Cocktail Luncheon
  Dress Code: Smart Casual

Evening Events:

• 16:00 – The GRAND FINAL of the Cigar Smoking World Championship
• 21:00 – Exclusive Gala Dinner Party with live music: The Night of the Champions
  Dress Code: Gala / Black Tie

Sunday, August 31

• 12:00 – Day Boat Party on the Adriatic Sea (weather permitting)
  Dress Code: Beachwear

Details & Registration

Price: €560 per person (all-inclusive, excluding accommodation)
Payment Options: Full payment or a 50/50 split—half upon registration, and the remaining half by August 1, 2025.
Host Hotel: Le Meridien Lav Hotel, Split – the official accommodation partner offering special rates for CSWC guests.

Whether you’re competing or simply celebrating the culture, the Grand Final in Split is an event you won’t want to miss.

For more information about the CSWC, check out http://www.cswcnews.com, or follow cswc_uk on social media for alerts about next year’s heats.

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Important Note: While this event celebrates cigar culture, it is important to remember that tobacco use carries significant health risks, including cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses.