The latest leg of Pechino Express 2026 has delivered a potent mix of emotional vulnerability and fresh energy as the competition makes its way through China. The high-stakes journey, a Sky Original produced by Banijay and available on Sky and NOW, is currently putting the remaining pairs to the test in a landscape that host Costantino Della Gherardesca describes as a clash between “the eternal and the new.”
The tension reached a breaking point during the first Chinese stage, where Biagio Izzo suffered an emotional collapse. Competing alongside Francesco Paolantoni, Izzo found himself overwhelmed roughly halfway through the leg. The combination of grueling fatigue and the increasing difficulty of securing rides left the comedian spent. Beyond the physical exhaustion, Izzo struggled with the perceived burden of his profession—the pressure to remain constantly brilliant and armed with the perfect joke.
In a rare moment of raw vulnerability, Izzo was comforted by Della Gherardesca, who remained by his side to remind him of the incredible resilience both he and Paolantoni have displayed throughout the season. While the crisis was short-lived, it highlighted the mental toll of the competition, proving that even the most jovial personalities can be pushed to their limits.
Adding a new spark to the production is Giulia Salemi, who has stepped in as the demonstrate’s new envoy, replacing Lillo. Salemi, who previously experienced the show’s rigors as a contestant—much like Enzo Miccio—has transitioned seamlessly into her new role. Her background in television and podcasting has equipped her with a command of language and a sense of timing that allows her to lighten the mood exactly when needed.
The Chinese setting is proving to be one of the most challenging environments yet. From the intense 519 km stretch from Shanghai to Yuliang to the enchanting sights of Hangzhou, the pairs are battling more than just distance. According to Della Gherardesca, the teams are facing significant hurdles due to the language barrier and a general reluctance among the local population to interface with foreigners.
As the competition heats up, the stakes have never been higher. Following the elimination of Le Biondine, the remaining couples are fighting for every advantage. The fifth leg, which aired on April 9, 2026, continues to showcase the physical and emotional endurance required to survive one of Italy’s most demanding reality formats.
