X Factor 2026 selects 12 finalists for Live Shows

X Factor 2026 has finalized its lineup of 12 contestants for the upcoming Live Shows, which are scheduled to begin on October 22 at the Teatro Repember in Milan. The selection was completed during the Last Call phase, where judges Francesco Gabbani, Irama, Jake La Furia, and Paola Iezzi utilized the ‘switch’ mechanism to form their respective three-person teams.

The selection process was marked by high emotional tension, including a medical incident where contestant Kora (Benedetta Cornalba) suffered a tachycardia attack in the backstage area due to performance anxiety, requiring assistance from host Giorgia.

In addition to the official teams, host Giorgia announced that she holds two X Passes, which will allow the public to vote on which eliminated contestants should return to the competition at the start of the Live Shows. The season has seen strong viewership, with recent episodes reaching a total audience of nearly 3 million viewers across free and pay platforms.