S1·E53 Challenge From Kirisaki! New Program Yakitate!! 9 Starts

Fresh off their Monaco Cup victory, Kazuma Azuma and the Pantasia team return to Japan only to find themselves drawn into a new nationwide baking competition orchestrated by Mr. Kirisaki. As preparations for the Yakitate! 9 tournament begin, Ken Matsushiro reveals the history behind Ryou Kuroyanagi's career, leading the celebrated food critic to make a pivotal decision about his future.