Episode 1 focused on the initial auditions and "Live Cooking" sessions, where contestants needed at least two "yes" votes from the judges to earn a grey apron and advance to the next selection stage. Season 12 Highlights

Edoardo Franco , an unemployed home cook from Varese, was ultimately crowned the winner of this edition.

The season consisted of 24 episodes (typically aired in pairs over 12 weeks) and began with 20 main contestants following the initial selection rounds.

This season introduced strengthened "Skill Tests" featuring external commissioners and international guest judges like Enrico Crippa , Mauro Colagreco , and Iginio Massari .