Teen Triumphs at Scripps National Spelling Bee with Record-Breaking Spell-Off
In a gripping finale spanning three days and 18 intense rounds, the Scripps National Spelling Bee concluded with 14-year-old Shrey Parikh from Rancho Cucamonga, California, emerging as the champion. The competition reached its climax at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., where Parikh faced off against 12-year-old Ishaan Gupta from Jersey City, New Jersey, in a thrilling spell-off.
A Spell-Off Decides the Champion
On Thursday night, the field dwindled from nine finalists to just two, marking the beginning of an exciting spell-off. Both Parikh and Gupta displayed exceptional skills, correctly spelling their eighth words before the spell-off commenced. “I was not excited at all,” Parikh confessed, referring to the spell-off format, which he initially found less ideal than traditional spelling rounds. However, he remained composed and gave it his all.
E.W. Scripps Company president and CEO Adam Symson holds the trophy over Shrey Parikh, winner of the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee, at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. on Thursday.
Allison Robbert/AP
In a timed challenge, each finalist had 90 seconds to spell as many words as possible. After careful tallying, Parikh was declared the winner with 32 correct words compared to Gupta’s 25, setting a new record for the spell-off round.
Prize and Plans for the Future
Beyond the title, Parikh’s victory came with a $52,500 cash prize, reference materials, flight credits, and an exclusive meeting with an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. With the competition behind him, Parikh plans to focus on his other interests, including tennis and math competitions. He firmly believes in perseverance, encouraging others to “keep trying” as the key to success.
Return to Washington, D.C.
This year marked the competition’s return to Washington, D.C., after a 15-year hiatus, having previously been held in Maryland and Florida. The decision to return was motivated by the city’s historical significance and access to its museums and monuments. Over 247 participants, ranging from 9 to 15 years old, traveled from across the United States and territories to compete during “Bee Week.”
Historic Venue and Audience Engagement
The atmosphere at the event was electric, with a diverse audience including families, journalists, and local residents. Attendees explored the history of the bee, engaged with costumed mascots, and enjoyed the event’s wholesome charm. Merchandise like bee plushies was in high demand, reflecting the excitement surrounding the competition.
Competition Format and Challenges
This year’s bee consisted of seven spelling rounds and an additional vocabulary round, which was introduced in 2021 to reduce the focus on memorization. The process was overseen by Dr. Jaques Bailly, a former winner and the head pronouncer for over 20 years. Each round tested the contestants’ ability to recall definitions and word origins, culminating in the spell-off that once again demonstrated the competitors’ exceptional talent.
For more information on the Scripps National Spelling Bee, visit NPR’s coverage.
