Orestes Barbero returns as the guest of honor for the Night of Champions PasswordA tournament, aligning with Pablo Díaz, Luis de Lama, and Javier Dávila. The show will be hosted by Roberto Leal, bringing together the contestants who have endured the longest duels in history across three special installments that begin this Saturday at 22:00.
Ahead of the premiere, Orestes spoke with the Pasapalabra team to share how life is treating him months after the big voyage. Rafa Castano, who is now viewed as one of the seasoned veterans in the world of competition, joined the afternoon episode of La 1 where he was featured in the 360 program. He did not hesitate to accept the invitation to reappear on the show where he previously appeared in the daytime slot.
“It is a wonderful feeling to be on a program with exceptionally talented people. Competitions function like a kind of networking, a healthy web of relationships among a wide range of participants. We all bring kindness and a shared passion for knowledge,” explains Orestes on his return to Pasapalabra.
He also notes that his daily life is gradually returning to normal: “The beginning was difficult because everything felt so new. The social exposure was intense, but time helps. Slowly, life regains its rhythm and the continuity of everyday routines takes hold.”
Looking back at Rafa’s memorable moment when he stepped aboard the boat for the long-awaited race, Orestes recalls: “When he hit his third correct answer on the tricky rounds, I knew another win was within reach. I started cheering, and when it happened, it felt earned.”
“I felt almost liberated by the regained freedom, ready to return to a normal life. I was genuinely happy for Rafa, and I kept moving forward. It wasn’t traumatizing; it was simply a turning point,” the young competitor says, noting that he has maintained good relations with his rival to this day. He adds that Rafa celebrated with a small party and even invited him along. Yet he emphasizes that both have their own paths: “Ultimately, he has his life, and I have mine.”
Regarding a potential full-time return to Pasapalabra as a contestant, Orestes admits he has not completely ruled it out: “Never say never. In the near term, I want a calm rhythm in my ordinary life and I have other projects, but in the long run, the door remains open.”