Amici 26 debut shifted to October 11 as boxing, judo and skating join

Production Timeline and Broadcast Shifts

According to planning reports circulating ahead of the broadcast, behind-the-scenes adjustments have also pushed back the initial studio recording session. The first taping of the season, originally marked for October 1, has reportedly been moved to Thursday, October 8. Three days following that recording, the opening episode is scheduled to air, introducing the new roster of students admitted to the academy.

Expansion Into Combat Sports and Artistic Skating

The defining structural shift of the 26th edition involves expanding the curriculum beyond the traditional pillars of singing and dancing. Promotional materials released by the network confirm the integration of three distinct athletic disciplines: boxing, judo, and roller figure skating. Promotional spots feature athletes from these specialized fields accompanied by messaging centered on discipline, physical conditioning, and athletic rigor.

Historical Precedents in Athletic Integration

The incorporation of physical sports is not entirely unprecedented in the history of the production. During the 2006–2007 television season, the program introduced artistic gymnastics into its roster, featuring athletes Mihaela Pohoata and Mircea Zamfir under the guidance of Olympic champion Jury Chechi. However, that athletic track was discontinued in subsequent seasons, returning the school exclusively to its core performing arts focus until the current announcements for the upcoming cycle.

Industry reports indicate that each incoming sports competitor will work alongside specialized professional instructors, undergoing dedicated daily training regimens and facing direct elimination challenges comparable to those experienced by vocalists and dancers.

Cast Speculation and Format Adjustments

Alongside curriculum updates, the coaching and professional faculty lineup faces ongoing speculation. Longtime instructors such as Alessandra Celentano and Rudy Zerbi are widely anticipated to return to their instructional posts, while industry rumors have linked personalities such as former MMA fighter Alessio Sakara to potential coaching roles within the newly formed athletic tracks.

Further structural rumors suggest potential modifications to daily broadcast strips and residential living arrangements for participants, though network executives have not formally verified these adjustments. The definitive configuration of the student body, coaching staff, and competitive ruleset is expected to be unveiled during the premiere broadcast on October 11.