Visa Serves Up Global Culinary Stardom as Official Payment Partner of MasterChef Sri Lanka Season 1

Visa, a global leader in digital payments, today announced its association as the Official Payment Partner for the inaugural season of MasterChef Sri Lanka, bringing one of the world’s most celebrated culinary television formats to Sri Lankan audiences for the very first time.

Recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s most successful cookery television format, MasterChef has expanded to over 70 international adaptations, airing in more than 200 territories and broadcasting over 10,000 episodes globally. Its arrival in Sri Lanka marks a defining milestone, placing the nation’s rich culinary heritage and emerging talent on a globally recognised stage. 

Dining remains a core passion for Visa in Sri Lanka, reflected in its ongoing efforts to enhance how consumers discover, enjoy, and pay for food through curated experiences and exclusive privileges. The partnership with MasterChef Sri Lanka builds on this commitment by blending global entertainment with local culinary talent - celebrating Sri Lanka’s rich food culture while empowering communities, supporting tourism and small businesses, and expanding access through digital innovation.

Avanthi Colombage, Country Manager, Sri Lanka and Maldives at Visa, said, “MasterChef’s arrival in Sri Lanka is a powerful recognition of the country’s vibrant culinary heritage and its growing influence on the global stage. It provides a platform to celebrate Sri Lanka’s authentic flavors while inspiring the next generation to innovate within our food culture. This partnership reflects our belief in the power of innovation and inclusive values that are central to both Visa and MasterChef. Our goal is to spotlight Sri Lanka’s culinary talent and inspire new possibilities for small businesses and entrepreneurs across the food and tourism sectors. As Visa sponsors MasterChef Sri Lanka, we are proud to be part of a journey that celebrates the nation’s remarkable culinary identity and reaffirms our long-standing commitment to Sri Lanka.”

Ajith Gamlath, President and Chairman of Reality TV Productions Pvt Ltd., added, “We are thrilled to partner with a global brand like Visa for Master Chef Sri Lanka, Season 01, as the official payment partner. Master Chef, which is currently being aired across more than 200 countries and Sri Lanka being the 72nd country to secure the franchise and adopt the show, makes us a part of a global phenomenon showcasing culinary excellence, talents and passion. In fact, as the exclusive franchise holder and producer of Master Chef in Sri Lanka, we aim to showcase our very own Sri Lankan culinary excellence, our heritage and diversity in food and dishes to the World. For this, having Visa on board is a strength to us, and we value their presence”

Globally, MasterChef continues to attract millions of viewers per season, alongside strong digital and social engagement, reinforcing its position as one of the most-watched culinary reality formats in the world. Its debut on ITN signals Sri Lanka’s readiness to engage global audiences through the universal language of food.

With Visa present in Sri Lanka for nearly forty years, the partnership with MasterChef Sri Lanka underscores its ongoing dedication to creating meaningful, everyday experiences for consumers, particularly in the realms of food, dining, and shared moments.

About Visa Inc. Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable, and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere, and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.