Indian-American teenager Shrey Parikh emerged victorious at the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee by correctly spelling 32 words in a spell-off, setting a new competition record. Representing the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools in California, the 14-year-old eighth-grader clinched the title with the word “bromocriptine,” described as a polypeptide alkaloid mimicking dopamine’s activity. Parikh’s win marked the third spell-off in the Bee’s history, with his 32 correctly spelled words establishing a new record.
The champion, a student at Day Creek Intermediate School in California, showcased his experience on the national stage by participating in previous Bees. Parikh’s journey included tying for 89th place in 2022, finishing tied for third place in 2024, and finally securing the championship in 2026. His diverse interests extend beyond language and vocabulary competitions, encompassing tennis, reading, mathematics, chess, and percussion in his school band.
Parikh’s official biography highlights his passion for mathematics, spending time with family, and his strong ties to India. He has excelled in various areas, qualifying for the California state Mathcounts competition and cherishing visits to India to be with his grandparents. The Scripps National Spelling Bee, founded in 1925, stands as a prestigious academic competition in the United States, drawing top young spellers from diverse backgrounds.
