Belgian Filmmaker Breaks Two World Records With His Tongue

A 43-year-old Belgian filmmaker just proved that the silly faces you made as a kid might actually be training for greatness.

Sacha Feiner, a movie director and father from Belgium, recently shattered the world record for most tongue-to-nose touches in one minute with an incredible 421 touches. That's nearly 100 more than the previous record of 334 set by Brazil's Renato Bayma Gaia in 2023.

But this isn't Feiner's first tongue triumph. In 2024, he claimed the record for largest tongue circumference (male) by inflating his tongue to 17 centimeters around.

"Having made quite a lot of funny faces as a child, I had always known that I was able to touch my nose with my tongue," Feiner said. "Before realizing that it could bring me a world record, I hadn't considered it a talent."

The special effects creator and puppets designer admitted he used to hide his unique ability, only bringing it out to shock his parents. Now, as a record holder, he's ready to show it off at every opportunity.

Breaking the speed record required more strategy than strength. Feiner trained only a few times, focusing on reducing his range of motion to increase his speed while maintaining intense concentration throughout the minute-long attempt.

Why This Inspires

Feiner tackled this challenge to change how people think about differences. Many assumed his large tongue would be a handicap, something that would slow him down.

"The biggest tongue in the world can also be the quickest," he said. "Being big isn't a handicap when it comes to being fast. What better motivation to break a record than the opportunity to help change mindsets around the world?"

For Feiner, who works on slow-developing film projects, achieving these records provides tangible victories. He's already designing animated trophies, neon signs, and badges to commemorate his wins, just like he created busts of his inflated tongue for friends after his first record.

His seven-year-old son remains proud, which Feiner says makes keeping the legend alive worthwhile. He's even joked about offering workshops to pass on this essential skill to others.

As for what's next, Feiner is waiting for inspiration to strike again while browsing the Guinness World Records books. With a well-trained tongue, he jokes, nothing is impossible.