Gotzon Mantuliz has emerged victorious in the fifth edition of El Desafío, a popular Spanish television competition aired on Antena 3, on Friday, March 28, 2025. The Basque influencer and content creator clinched the title after an impressive performance that showcased his acrobatic skills and creativity.
In a thrilling finale, Mantuliz faced off against three other finalists: Victoria de Marichalar, Susi Caramelo, and Lola Lolita. Each contestant was tasked with delivering their best performance to impress the judges and secure the coveted title. Mantuliz, who had been a consistent frontrunner throughout the season, demonstrated his prowess with a stunning choreography that combined dance and acrobatics, ultimately earning him the maximum score from the jury.
During the final challenge, Mantuliz partnered with Genoveva Casanova for the 'Cuarteto extremo' segment, where they executed their routine flawlessly, amassing a total of 265 points. This score not only highlighted his exceptional talent but also solidified his position as the season's champion. Victoria de Marichalar finished in second place with 227 points, while Susi Caramelo and Lola Lolita secured third and fourth positions with 192 and 187 points, respectively.
The announcement of Mantuliz as the winner came during the closing moments of the gala, where the host, Roberto Leal, revealed the final scores. As the news sank in, all participants rushed to congratulate him, showcasing the camaraderie built throughout the competition.
In addition to the title, Mantuliz received a prize of 30,000 euros, which he generously donated to the charity Unoentrecienmil, an organization dedicated to fighting childhood leukemia. This heartfelt gesture was met with applause and admiration from the audience and his fellow contestants. "I had doubts about whom to choose, but I wanted to think of someone who has participated in every gala of all five seasons of El Desafío and has never had the chance to win," Mantuliz shared, referring to Leal, who has been a constant presence throughout the show's history.
After winning the competition, Mantuliz expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, "I take with me very good friends and an experience that I will remember for a lifetime." His victory not only marks a significant personal achievement but also sets the stage for his future endeavors in the entertainment industry.
Following his win, it was announced that Gotzon Mantuliz will host a new program on laSexta titled Cazadores de imágenes, where he will embark on adventures with celebrities to capture stunning images. This new role is a testament to his growing popularity and versatility as a performer.
The fifth season of El Desafío concluded with strong viewership, maintaining its position as a leader in Friday night programming, garnering a 14.7% audience share, significantly ahead of its competitors. The show featured a diverse group of contestants, including notable personalities like Feliciano López and Manuel Díaz “El Cordobés,” who all contributed to the season's excitement and entertainment value.
Throughout the season, Mantuliz consistently demonstrated his talent and dedication, maintaining the top position on the leaderboard for twelve consecutive weeks. His journey began with a strong debut, winning the first gala and continuing to impress the judges and viewers alike with his physical abilities and engaging personality.
Victoria de Marichalar, who finished as the runner-up, also left a lasting impression with her performances. Despite starting the final with some insecurities, she captivated the judges with her acrobatic routine, earning praise from the jury. Juan del Val, one of the judges, expressed his admiration, stating, "Both we and all of Spain have been fortunate to know you."
Susi Caramelo and Lola Lolita, who completed the top four, showcased their unique talents as well. Caramelo performed an electro swing choreography that delighted the audience, while Lolita's aerial cube act, accompanied by a live performance from singer Belén Aguilera, added an extra layer of entertainment to the finale.
As the season came to an end, the emotional moments were palpable, especially when Mantuliz made his charitable donation announcement. This act of kindness resonated deeply with viewers and participants, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and community that El Desafío aims to promote.
In his personal life, Gotzon Mantuliz, originally from Getxo, Vizcaya, has built a substantial following on social media, where he shares glimpses of his adventures and family life. He married Patricia Pérez in a private ceremony in Burgos in September 2019, and the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Vera, in February 2024. Mantuliz's ability to balance his public persona with a private family life has endeared him to fans, who appreciate his authenticity and relatability.
As the credits rolled on the fifth season of El Desafío, viewers were left with a sense of satisfaction and anticipation for what the future holds for Mantuliz and the other contestants. With his new hosting role and continued commitment to charitable causes, Gotzon Mantuliz is poised to make a significant impact in the entertainment world.
