Nailympia announces Sicily as a new competition location for 2026
By Alex Fox | 18 March 2026 | News & Events
Nail competition brand, Nailympia, has continued its dynamic expansion with the announcement of its 14th international location: Catania, Sicily – proudly representing Italy on the Nailympia world stage.
Taking place 28–30 November, Nailympia Sicily will be hosted at the elegant Grand Villa Itria, offering competitors a luxurious setting paired with iconic Mediterranean views.
A competition designed to inspire
The event will showcase 17 competitions: 11 in the arena alongside six hand-in categories, ensuring opportunities for every level and style of nail professional. Nailympia global director, Alex Fox, shares: “It’s a very happy day when we get to announce a new location for Nailympia – and even more exciting when it is born in such a stunning destination with Mediterranean views. This will be a three-day event packed full of competitions with something for everyone.
“There will be 12 trophies awarded, including the 5th Euro Cup, which takes its first round of scores from Nailympia London just six weeks prior. What a great way to end the Nailympia 2026 circuit – inside a stunning European hotel event space. See you… and ciao for now.”
From competitor to host: Erika Nortier’s vision
At the heart of Nailympia Sicily is its passionate new host, Erika Nortier, whose journey with the competition began in 2019 as a competitor. Reflecting on her new role, Erika cites: “I’m deeply honoured to be appointed as the official organiser of Nailympia Sicily – a milestone that represents not only a personal achievement, but a significant moment for the nail industry in Italy.” Having experienced the competition firsthand, Erika brings a unique perspective, noting: “My journey in this industry began many years ago as a competitor, where I had the privilege of experiencing the intensity, discipline and passion that define the Nailympia arena.”
With a vision firmly rooted in elevating the competitor experience, she adds: “Those years shaped my understanding of what competitors truly need – not only in terms of technical excellence, but also support, fairness, inspiration and recognition.”
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Elevating Italy on the global stage
With a clear mission, Erika is focused on delivering an exceptional platform. “Today, I bring my experience forward with a clear vision: to create an exceptional competition platform that elevates artists, celebrates creativity and upholds the highest international standards. This goal is met with Nailympia Sicily,” she claims, “It’s an opportunity to showcase the extraordinary talent within our country, while connecting Italy to a global community of world-class professionals.”
She concludes with a powerful statement of intent: “With the same passion, dedication and commitment that once drove me as a competitor, I now step into this role as organiser with purpose, vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Highly respected international competitor and long-standing judge, Zrinka Vuksan Bolanča, will step into her debut role as head judge for the Sicilian edition. Representing Canada and proudly honouring her Croatian roots, Zrinka brings years of Nailympia experience to this prestigious position. She will be joined by a panel of familiar global judges, soon to be announced.
A spectacular finale to the Nailympia season
As the Nailympia calendar builds towards its European finale, Sicily promises to deliver not only a world-class competition, but an unforgettable cultural and visual experience. From rising stars to seasoned champions, all nail eyes will turn to Catania this November – where creativity, craftsmanship and community all meet under the Mediterranean sun.
Registration opens soon. Register your interest in competing, here.
