The Tuesday appearance by Rafa and Orestes on Pasapalabra triggered plenty of chatter, yet there were no dramatic reveals—no prize disclosed, no jackpot announced by Pablo Motos on the live set. Their presence offered viewers a deeper peek into who the contestants are, and the moment also marked a milestone: Orestes turned 26, celebrated in good spirits as the episode of El Hormiguero drew 3,080,000 spectators and held the title as one of television’s most-watched programs. — ANTENNA 3
The atmosphere between the two contestants was surprisingly balanced. When the first question landed, it was clear neither was “on the ropes.” Rafa explained that competing alongside someone who brings out your best is a gift in itself, because the focus shifts to enjoying the experience rather than just winning. “Competing against someone so similar yet so different makes the dynamic rich,” he added. — ANTENNA 3
As for the coveted prize, nearly two million euros, both reflected on whether that sum felt sufficient or whether a specific target might unlock a win. Orestes proposed a threshold of around 300,000 euros, framing the moment when the prize would become especially appealing. “From that point on it gets really tempting,” the Burgos native confessed, noting the Christmas Lottery’s influence on the game’s pace and anticipation. “I pictured taking the moment as long as I could,” he smiled. — ANTENNA 3
The moment of truth often arrives with a single word left to answer. Rafa and Orestes acknowledged that the process depends on the word and its context. If the final clue seems unknowable, it can feel like a binary guess in the heat of the moment. Rafa confessed that the hardest part comes when the opponent already knows the opposite word, because recognizing that certainty can prematurely signal the end. — ANTENNA 3
When asked if there had been any private agreement about sharing the prize, both laughed off the notion, calling it a playful rumor rather than a serious plan. The playful banter rang true: if one clinched the jackpot, it would be theirs to enjoy; if the other did, the same sentiment would apply. The lighthearted exchanges underscored the mutual respect between the two. — ANTENNA 3
The contestants also reflected on the final image and the public’s curiosity about their partnership on screen. Orestes and Rafa appeared together in the frame, their camaraderie clear as they posed for the backstage photo. The moment highlighted the human side of the competition, where friendships form amid the pressure to perform. — ANTENNA 3
Behind the spectacle, some fans wonder how to replicate the approach that could lead to a millionaire win. Rafa revealed a shift in routine from the early days. He used to study for many hours—roughly 12 to 14 a day, he said—but with time, his cadence evolved. The key is to avoid obsession; a steady, sustainable rhythm helps maintain composure while keeping the mind alert. Now, he dedicates only two to three hours during peak preparation periods. — ANTENNA 3
Orestes described his method as more than just hitting targets. It relies on a broad cultural foundation, a wide vocabulary, and the ability to internalize a vast amount of information. He spoke of cultivating a sixth sense that helps him stay ahead as knowledge settles in gradually. — ANTENNA 3
The Burgos student, who continues his philosophy studies, noted that academic work also sharpens his game. Exams teach him to move beyond cramming and practice deep learning, turning study habits into a practical edge at the buzzer. He loves that process because it blends intellectual rigor with the thrill of the competition. — ANTENNA 3