Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo Triumph at 2026 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

Joey Chestnut successfully defended his title at the 2026 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, achieving victory once again on July 4. Chestnut consumed an impressive 66 hot dogs and buns within just 10 minutes, earning him the Mustard Belt for the 18th time. This year marked a triumphant return for Chestnut, who reclaimed the title in 2025 after a hiatus in 2024, when he ate 70.5 hot dogs and buns. The all-time record, however, remains his 2021 performance of 76 hot dogs and buns.

Chestnut expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Eating here on the Fourth of July is a dream; it’s electric. There’s no place better on Earth.” Amid a backdrop of chanting fans at Nathan’s Famous flagship restaurant in Coney Island, Brooklyn, competitors battled for the $10,000 cash prize and the prestigious belt while braving the scorching heat.

Second place in the men’s competition went to Patrick Bertoletti from Chicago, who managed to eat 51 hot dogs and buns. The event saw participation from a diverse group of competitive eaters from around the world, each bringing their skills to the forefront.

Miki Sudo Dominates Women’s Competition

In addition to Chestnut’s victory, Miki Sudo secured the pink belt in the women’s competition for the 12th time. She consumed 38 and three-quarter hot dogs and buns. While not surpassing her 51-hot dog record, she improved upon her 2025 performance of 33 hot dogs and buns. Sudo celebrated the occasion, saying, “I’m just glad I could celebrate America 250 in this way.” Michelle Lesco, the 2021 champion, took second place with 22 hot dogs and buns.

Thousands Gather Despite Extreme Heat

In spite of the intense heat, a large crowd attended the event, eager to witness this iconic American tradition. One dedicated fan traveled from California to watch Joey Jaws Chestnut secure his 18th title, demonstrating the contest’s broad appeal and enduring popularity.

A Snapshot of the Competitors

Alongside Chestnut and Sudo, various international and American competitors joined the contest. Officially certified during the weigh-in at Hudson Yards in New York City, notable participants included:

• Men: Patrick Bertoletti (Chicago), James Webb (Sydney), Nick Wehry (Tampa), Max Stanford (London), Gideon Oji (Stockbridge), Derek Hendrickson (Las Vegas), Radim Dvoracek (Ostrava), George Chiger (Pocono Pines), Cameron Meade (Valparaiso), Tanner Gray (Fort Mill), Jerome Burns (Danbury), Crazy Legs Conti (New York City), Ynho Choi (Seoul)
• Women: Domenica Dee (Seattle), Tandra Childress (San Francisco), Katie Prettyman (Marysville), Rene Rovtar (Basking Ridge), Cherish Brown (Eden), Camille O’Brien (Jeffersonville), Semora Kludy (Charlotte), Lainey Eaton (San Diego), Michelle Lesco (Tucson)