On March 6–7, 2026, Kyiv hosted its first international competition with qualification for the Bachata Social World Cup Final as part of Kyiv Dance Festival 2026

On March 6, the Amateur category took place, where the winners were:
Leader — Bohdan Zhuk
Follower — Jennifer Shyshkina
The judging panel consisted of invited festival artists.

On March 7, the Professional category was held, featuring top dancers from Ukraine as well as finalists from the Amateur division. International participants also joined the competition, giving the event an official international status.

The winners were Chicho Llerena and Anastasiia Tsurkan. As Chicho had already secured his qualification for the final, the spot was passed to Renat Mishchenko.

The competition took place in an amazing atmosphere, and a unique highlight of the Professional category was that the dancers themselves served as judges, adding a special level of trust and authenticity to the event.