The Italian reality show Pechino Express, known internationally as Peking Express, continues its 2026 season, titled “L’Estremo Oriente” (The Far East), with a recent installment featuring comedian Lillo taking on the role of badminton instructor. The show, currently airing on Sky Uno and streaming on NOW, is captivating audiences with its challenging route spanning Indonesia, China, and Japan, culminating in Kyoto.
The second episode of the season saw Lillo, serving as a field reporter in Indonesia, playfully embrace the role of a badminton master. This segment highlighted badminton’s significance in Indonesia, the only nation to have secured an Olympic gold medal in the sport. Lillo connected the sport to a familiar pastime for many Italians – the classic game of “volano,” or shuttlecock – adding a touch of relatable humor to the cultural immersion.
Pechino Express, created by Ludo Poppe, has been a staple of Italian television since 2012, initially broadcast on Rai 2 and now on Sky Uno, Now, and TV8. The show’s premise remains consistent: ten couples navigate unfamiliar territories with limited resources – a single backpack and a daily budget of one euro per person in local currency – relying on resourcefulness and local interactions to progress. Each stage culminates in a ranking revealed at the “Tappeto Rosso” (Red Carpet), where the lowest-ranking team faces the uncertainty of the “Busta Nera” (Black Envelope), potentially leading to elimination.
This season’s cast includes a diverse range of personalities, including comedic duos Gli Spassusi (Biagio Izzo and Francesco Paolantoni) and I Comedian (Tay Vines and Assane Diop), as well as musical artists Le Dj (Jo Squillo and Michelle Masullo) and I Rapper (Dani Faiv and Tony 2Milli). The show’s host, Costantino della Gherardesca, has described the season as “cinematic,” suggesting a heightened level of production value.
The Indonesian leg of the journey, covered by Lillo, sets the stage for the broader “Estremo Oriente” adventure. The show’s format challenges contestants not only physically and mentally but also culturally, requiring them to adapt to new environments and rely on the kindness of strangers. For viewers unfamiliar with the show, Pechino Express is a test of resilience, adaptability, and the ability to connect with people from different backgrounds.
During the second stage, Lillo explained the basic rules of badminton, a hugely popular sport in Indonesia, in an entertaining manner. The clip, as reported by sources, showcases Lillo taking his role as an on-location reporter seriously, providing viewers with insights into the local culture and sporting traditions.
The journey continues as the couples progress through Indonesia, then onto China, where Giulia Salemi will take over as the field reporter, and finally Japan, with Guido Meda accompanying the teams. The ultimate goal remains reaching Kyoto, but the path is fraught with challenges and unexpected turns.
Pechino Express – L’Estremo Oriente airs every Thursday at 21:15 on Sky Uno and is available for streaming on NOW. The show’s blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and competitive spirit continues to draw a large audience, making it a popular fixture in Italian television.
The next episode will see the couples continuing their journey through Indonesia, facing new challenges and navigating the complexities of the local landscape. Viewers can expect more cultural immersion, strategic gameplay, and the ever-present threat of the “Busta Nera.”
