2025 Competition Format
From 180 dancers to the World Champions - discover the journey
You are reading the 2025 edition archive. These rules no longer apply.
See the 2026 rulesPreliminary Groups
Groups Distribution
7 Songs
Competition rounds
2 Switches
Per song
Starting Participants
Advancing to Quarterfinals
Quarterfinals
7 Songs
Competition rounds
2 Switches
Per song
Starting Participants
Advancing to Semifinals
Semifinals
7 Songs
Competition rounds
1 Switch
Per song
Starting Participants
Advancing to Final
Final
Finalists
Phase 1: Participants with Participants
3 Songs
Competition
1 Switch
Per song
Phase 2: Participants with Judges
3 Songs
Evaluation
1 Judge
Per song
Competition Overview
The Bachata Social World Cup features a progressive elimination format designed to showcase the best social dancing skills. Starting with 180 qualified dancers (90 leaders and 90 followers), the competition narrows down through multiple rounds to crown the world champions.
Each round tests dancers' ability to adapt to different partners and musical styles, emphasizing the social aspect of bachata dancing. The number of partner switches decreases as the competition progresses, allowing judges to better evaluate individual performances.
The unique final round includes dancing with both fellow competitors and judges, providing a comprehensive assessment of each finalist's skills, musicality, and connection.