As anticipation builds, viewers are gearing up for the finale of the 20th season of Pékin Express, which takes place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa. This season, titled La route des tribus légendaires, has captivated audiences with its stunning landscapes and intense competition.
The final showdown will feature two dynamic teams: Étienne and Judith, aged 27 and 26, known as the "lovebirds from the North," and Cécile and Marion, 27 and 21, dubbed "the students." Both teams have demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill throughout the season, which began airing its first episode on January 16, 2025.
Host Stéphane Rotenberg set the stage for the finale, reminding contestants of their journey: "Étienne, Judith, Cécile, Marion, you are about to start the finale of Pékin Express. And this isn’t just any finale; it’s the 20th season. Remember, over forty days ago, you were at the foot of Kilimanjaro. You’ve traversed Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa, and now you’re here."
In terms of stakes, the competition remains tight. Étienne and Judith hold a potential prize of €55,000, while Cécile and Marion have a potential €45,000. Both teams possess five amulets each, which can vary in value, hence the difference in total potential winnings. Rotenberg explained the mechanics of the finale: "We will start with three intermediate sprints. Each time a team arrives first, they will trigger a timer that deducts €10 per second from the opposing team. That adds up quickly—€600 per minute, €18,000 per half-hour, and €36,000 per hour!"
As the final approaches, the excitement is palpable. The course will take the finalists through iconic locations, including the Soweto Towers and the Hartbeespoort cable car, where they will face challenges that test their physical and mental limits. The final sprint will unfold amid the bustling urban landscape of Johannesburg, adding another layer of complexity to the race.
"It's the culmination of a dream," tweeted M6, the channel airing the show, as they prepare for what is expected to be a thrilling conclusion to a season rich with twists and alliances. The production team has ensured that the contestants face not only physical challenges but also the vibrant and sometimes chaotic atmosphere of Johannesburg, where every second counts.
The season has taken viewers on a journey across diverse African landscapes, from the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro to the vibrant streets of Johannesburg. The finale promises to be a fitting climax to a season that has showcased the beauty and challenges of the continent.
Marion Navarro, a former Miss Franche-Comté, and her partner Cécile Wolfrom, a former Miss Alsace, have impressed audiences with their determination and teamwork. Both contestants have surpassed expectations, proving their mettle in various challenges throughout the season. Their journey has resonated with fans, especially those from Baume-les-Dames, Marion's hometown, who are eagerly cheering them on.
As the final episode airs, M6 anticipates nearly two million viewers tuning in to see who will emerge victorious. The stakes are high, and the competition is fierce, with both teams ready to give their all for the coveted title and the grand prize of €100,000.
Despite the intense competition, the camaraderie among contestants has been a highlight of the season. Social media buzz suggests that viewers see Cécile and Marion as potential favorites, given their strong performance in prior episodes. However, Étienne and Judith have also shown remarkable consistency and resilience, making them formidable contenders.
As the clock ticks down to the finale, fans are left wondering who will cross the finish line first and claim victory. Will it be the lovebirds from the North or the dynamic duo of former beauty queens? The answer lies just moments away as they navigate the final hurdles in this thrilling race.
In a surprising twist, the finale was initially scheduled for Thursday, April 3, but was postponed to allow for the launch of M6’s new game show, Les Traîtres. This change has only heightened anticipation for the grand finale of Pékin Express.
As viewers prepare for the final showdown, the excitement and tension are palpable. This season of Pékin Express has not only tested the contestants' physical limits but has also provided a glimpse into the rich cultures and stunning landscapes of Africa. With the finale just hours away, fans across the nation are ready to witness the culmination of this incredible journey.
Join us at 21:10 on M6 to find out who will be crowned the champions of the 20th season of Pékin Express. Will it be Étienne and Judith, or will Cécile and Marion take home the title? The race is on, and every second counts!
