In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 edition of Pechino Express, the duo of Jury Chechi and Antonio Rossi, known as 'I Medagliati', emerged victorious after a challenging journey spanning 6,000 kilometers through the Philippines, Thailand, and Nepal. The final episode aired on May 8, 2025, showcasing their remarkable adventure and solidifying their status as champions in the competitive reality show.
Chechi and Rossi, both celebrated athletes, faced off against two other finalist teams: 'I Complici', comprising Dolcenera and Gigi Campanile, who secured second place, and 'Gli Estetici', featuring Giulio Berruti and Nicolò Maltese, who finished third. The final showdown commenced from the iconic Skywalk Tower in Kathmandu, leading the contestants to the historic Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.
The competition was fierce from the outset, with the first Tappeto Rosso located near the ancient Hindu Temple of Pashupatinath. Here, the Estetici were eliminated, paving the way for a thrilling final contest between the Medagliati and the Complici. Throughout the season, Chechi and Rossi had consistently been front-runners, demonstrating their prowess by winning several immunity challenges and securing numerous stage victories.
In the final leg of their journey, the Medagliati engaged in various local activities, including painting the face of a sadhu in Patan and distributing 30 bowls of jujudhau, a traditional yogurt, in Bhaktapur. Their interactions with the local culture added a rich layer to their experience, allowing them to connect deeply with the communities they encountered.
As they navigated the challenges of the final day, the Medagliati faced a precarious Tibetan bridge that tested Chechi's fear of heights. "This adventure hasn’t changed me, but it has confirmed that if you truly believe, any dream is achievable. This was ours," Chechi remarked, reflecting on the emotional journey they undertook together.
In a heartwarming display of camaraderie, the Medagliati celebrated their final night in Nepal with their fellow competitors, sharing stories and laughter over dinner with local monks. The next day, they met the Kumari, a living goddess, who bestowed upon them a blessing and an enigmatic clue leading to their next destination.
Their final challenge took them to the Snowman Cafe, a legendary spot frequented by artists and intellectuals, where they discovered a hidden message from the show's host, Costantino della Gherardesca. After deciphering the clue, they proceeded to the final Tappeto Rosso at the Uma Maheshwor Temple, where the culmination of their journey awaited.
As the drums sounded and dancers performed, the moment of truth arrived. Costantino announced the winners, and the Medagliati were celebrated for their exemplary sportsmanship and unwavering determination. Chechi and Rossi's friendship shone throughout the competition, with Rossi expressing his gratitude, saying, "I couldn’t have done this journey with anyone else but Antonio; he is my best friend. He’s beautiful and smart, and there’s nothing to do about it!"
Dolcenera and Gigi Campanile, while proud of their second-place finish, shared their own emotional journey. "We have won in our own way. Before this, we were going through a dark period, but now we are closer than ever!" Dolcenera said, highlighting the personal growth they experienced during the competition.
Meanwhile, the Estetici, despite their elimination, expressed gratitude for the experience. Berruti reflected, "This has been perhaps the most beautiful journey of my life, made with my best friend. We learned to take time to savor what life gives us." Their heartfelt farewell underscored the bonds formed throughout the competition.
Throughout Pechino Express 2025, the Medagliati stood out not just for their athleticism but for their integrity and approach to the challenges presented. The season was marked by moments of tension and rivalry, yet Chechi and Rossi managed to maintain a spirit of collaboration and support that resonated with viewers.
As the episode concluded, it was evident that the journey had transformed all contestants, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. Looking ahead, fans eagerly await the next season, hoping for more adventures and the promise of new friendships forged through competition.
Congratulations to Jury Chechi and Antonio Rossi, the champions of Pechino Express 2025!
