2026 International Visionary Award Judge Announced for Madrid Final

Madrid (Spain) is set to host a historic milestone for the beauty industry this year with the arrival of the Alternative Hair Show in the country for the first time. The event coincides with the grand final of the International Visionary Award 2026, which will be held on Saturday, November 14, at the LOOK Madrid arena. The choice of city and date marks an important moment for professionals seeking international recognition for their artistic techniques.

The award's organization has officially revealed the names of the 16 experts who will form the body of international judges. These evaluators are responsible for personally examining the finalists' creations and casting their live votes during the ceremony. The evaluation will be rigorous, focusing on the technical and artistic quality of the proposals presented by the competitors.

The competitions will be divided into three specific categories: Cut & Color, Men's Grooming, and Avant-Garde. This division allows barbers and stylists to demonstrate their skills in different contexts, from classic men's grooming work to the boldest experiments in avant-garde hair styling. The presence of renowned judges from various countries ensures a global perspective in analyzing the works.

The International Visionary Award was created by Anthony Mascolo and has established itself as an essential platform for discovering and recognizing the talent of new generations of hairstylists. The award serves as a springboard for professionals who wish to stand out on the world stage, offering immediate visibility to the winners.

The final is part of the 43rd edition of the Alternative Hair Show, a legendary event founded by Tony Rizzo in 1983. The occasion will bring leading international teams together in Madrid for a celebration of limitless creativity, attracting the attention of the global market to innovation in the sector.

Beyond its artistic and competitive dimensions, the event maintains its social commitment to the fight against leukemia. Part of the funds raised will be donated to the Alternative Hair Charitable Foundation, reinforcing the positive impact of the beauty industry on society. For professionals, it is a unique opportunity to experience one of the world's most iconic shows live and discover the future stars of the sector.