Official announcement by Major League Eating

Joey Chestnut Barred from 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest Over $1.2M Impossible Foods Deal

Jun 11, 2024, 08:32 PM

Joey Chestnut, the 16-time champion of Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest, has been barred from participating in the 2024 event due to a $1.2 million sponsorship deal with Impossible Foods, a company that produces plant-based hot dogs. Major League Eating, the organization behind the contest, stated that Chestnut's endorsement of a rival brand conflicts with the event's sponsorship agreements. Chestnut, who has won the competition every year since 2016, including eight straight contests, expressed his disappointment, stating he was 'gutted' by the decision. George Shea of Major League Eating expressed hope that Chestnut will return in the future if he ends his association with Impossible Foods.