X Factor 2026 Live Shows Begin With Giorgia’s X Pass Twist

Overview

• The live phase of X Factor 2026 started on Thursday, October 22 from the X Factor Arena in Assago with Giorgia hosting and a judging panel of Francesco Gabbani, Jake La Furia, Paola Iezzi and new judge Irama.
• During the first show Giorgia named two Skoda X Pass picks — previously eliminated acts — who will perform and face a flash televote to become the 13th contestant in the competition.
• Marco Mengoni opened the first live with an exclusive set and presented his new single “Giornate Perse,” serving as the program’s first high-profile guest performance.
• Producers published the four judges’ teams and two reserves; bookmakers list Patrizia Napolano as an early favorite and price Irama as the favored judge, with quoted odds reported by multiple betting sites.
• The live run spans seven shows leading to a final on December 3 at the Unipol Forum and uses a two-manche format with judges’ ballottaggio eliminations that go to a public 'Tilt' tiebreak if votes split.