The program Grand Prix has returned to TVE with a premiere that has captured viewers' attention, becoming the best launch in the last three years in Spain. The Catalan municipality of Polinyà was the first winner of this summer season. With Ramón García at the helm, the audience applauded the return of one of its most iconic challenges, the 'cucaña' (greased pole), after fifteen years.
The comeback to television also brought criticism due to the new addition of Gorka Rodríguez, a presenter from RNE, to the presenting team. The idea of having three presenters has sparked debate about the necessity of so many commentators.
“"We have a new guy in the office! 🙌 Welcome, @Soy_gorka! Let's go for the party and the summer of our lives! ☀️🔥 #GrandPrixTVE"
The introduction called Pasión de capitanes (Passion of Captains), where godparents answer questions about their towns while captains maintain a weight, was well-received for its ability to add more emotion to the promotion of the towns.
The premiere of Grand Prix achieved a 16.8% share in Spain, with nearly one and a half million viewers. The camaraderie among the teams, with Valeria Ros as the godmother for Polinyà and Boris Izaguirre defending Cantalejo, provided moments of laughter and challenges. Classic games like La Patata caliente (Hot Potato) and Baloncesto en pañales (Basketball in Diapers) tested the contestants.
The two municipalities competed closely, but the Catalan team maintained a slight lead. The Los troncos locos (Crazy Logs) challenge was particularly notable, with numerous falls into the water. Ultimately, Polinyà secured victory with 36 points against Segovia's 19.
In the promotion of Polinyà, its Roman past, the church of Sant Salvador, and its Festa Major with giants and 'capgrossos' (big heads) were highlighted. One of its citizens expressed pride in being a young woman carrying on this tradition.
The 'most famous biker in town' and a police officer who combines his job with magic were also presented, performing a trick with a 'fuet' (sausage). The show concluded with an enthusiastic message for the continuation of the season.
“"From the heart of Vallès, with a Roman past and a bright future… it’s Polinyà! 💙 And from a town where they pull a fuet from behind your ear, we can only be fans. 🤌😂 Long live Polinyà 💙 #GrandPrixTVE"
