Following Pasapalabra’s dramatic finale last Thursday, Rafa stands as the contestant who secured the highest jackpot in the show’s history, reaching 2,272,000 Euros. His rival, Orestes, exited the competition due to the event’s rules. Since then, speculation has swirled about Burgos’ next move, but the path may diverge from more game show appearances and lean toward other possibilities.
Roberto Leal has long hosted a television competition that ranks among the most watched and respected programs on Spanish television. Its inaugural episode aired on July 24, 2000. The show began on Antena 3 and stayed there until 2006. A year later it migrated to Telecinco and remained until 2019. Since 2020, new episodes have aired every weekday afternoon from 20:00 to 21:00 on Antena 3. Telecinco sought to sustain buzz to seize leadership, yet Antena 3 consistently attracted more viewers and kept the program at the top of its timeslot.
Undoubtedly one of the highest‑earning Spanish programs, the show tallied a record jackpot of 2,190,000 Euros at one point in its history. The program also earned the Special Jury Award at the 2010 Onda Awards for a decade of sustained success in television. To this day, it remains among the most watched programs in Spain and a steadfast leader in its timeslot, thanks in large part to a loyal audience that has formed a close bond with the contestants who appear on screen.
No chance to return to the competition
For now, the doors to a return to Antena 3’s competition seem closed, leaving the Burgos contestant with a fresh set of possibilities. While his exact future path remains uncertain, local fans in Burgos appear eager to see him involved with the city’s soccer scene, should opportunities arise.
In fact, a recent post on the Twitter profile of Burgos CF, which managed to beat Sporting in a recent draw, featured the contestant who had formerly delivered the ceremonial kickoff for the match—sparking renewed attention about his ongoing sport involvement, even as he continues to train and explore new avenues. This aligns with the sense that his next steps will likely blend football with continued athletic development and personal growth. [citation: Telecinco, Antena 3, Burgos CF social channels]
As events unfold, the contestant himself has suggested that football could be part of his future, yet his current focus remains on training. Orestes has described his experience and country with pride on social media, calling it an honor to represent his homeland as he navigates new opportunities. The evolving story reflects a broader theme: athletes often diversify their careers, balancing sport with media attention and personal ambitions, all while maintaining strong ties to their hometowns and fan bases. [citation: Interviews and official profiles]