In the big Saturday night Eurovision show, Austria, Germany and Switzerland battled it out for the title of “The Cleverest” for the first time in the big three-country check

Thomas Gottschalk sent a team from each country into the race, consisting of scientists, housewives, high school graduates, entrepreneurs, the most beautiful men from each country and, of course, celebrities such as Armin Assinger, Marco Rima, Sandra Studer, Armin Rhode, etc.

In several rounds of games, the teams had to demonstrate their knowledge of human nature, empathy, logical thinking and national self-image in a humorous way – in short, everything you need to be able to call yourself “the cleverest”. The spectators in the hall and at home on the screen also played an active role in helping their country to reach the winner’s podium at the end of the big three-country check.

An international rowing race formed the finale of the program. Prominent athletes from the three countries each boarded a rowing eight on Lake Constance, which connects all three countries, and competed in an entertaining and exciting race to the finish. Although all the athletes were top in their sport, they had never seen the inside of a racing eight before. Jürgen Hingsen, Heike Drechsler, Olaf Thon, Denise Biellmann, Werner Günthör, Anita Wachter, Andreas Goldberger, Toni Polster and many more really put their backs into it to earn those all-important final points for their nation.

In the 2006 rematch, Thomas Gottschalk once again asked the three countries to compete against each other.

Each country sent two celebrities to fight for the honor of their country. Christine Neubauer and Mike Krüger flew the German flag. The Austrians sent actress Nicole Beutler and TV presenter Christian Clerici into the race and the Swiss wanted to win the country check with singer Francine Jordi and presenter Sven Epiney. Tough competition for defending champion Germany.

All the rounds were of the highest national standing! Each of the three countries prides itself on having the best drivers, just think of Michael Schumacher or Niki Laudi. But what about driving skills when it comes to maneuvering a Dutch vehicle and trailer backwards into a parking space? Behavior was also put to the test. Who shone with good manners and who made a fool of themselves?

Our comedian Kaya Yanar eavesdropped on young people in the three nations and discovered some strange new words. Which prominent country representatives were up to date and deciphered the youth slang?

There was also a competition in cooking, singing and quizzes, as knowledge and skill naturally play a major role. All talents were in demand and challenged.

Other guests: Carolyn Aigner, Anna Maier, Johann Lafer, Sarah Wiener, Andreas Studer.