When Netflix first released the South Korean sensation Physical: 100, it didn’t just find the “perfect physique“—it found a perfect global formula. Fast forward to 2026, and the franchise has officially exploded. Moving beyond the mountains of Korea, the series is now a worldwide phenomenon with several high-profile international spin-offs slated to dominate the streaming charts.
From the gritty arenas of Physical 100: USA to the gladiatorial spirit of Physical 100: Italia, the quest for the ultimate body has never been more diverse—or more dangerous. Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 global expansion.
The Global Expansion: USA, Italia, and Sweden
Netflix’s strategy for 2026 is clear: take the heart-pounding quests of the original and localize them for the fiercest athletes on the planet. While the core “Hanging Challenge” and “Death Match” remain, each country brings its own cultural flair to the forge.
1. Physical 100: USA – The Clash of Titans
Produced by A. Smith & Co. Productions (the legendary team behind American Ninja Warrior), the U.S. edition is arguably the most anticipated spin-off in the lineup.
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The Vibe: Expect “bigger, louder, and faster.” The U.S. version is set to feature a mix of NFL legends, CrossFit Games champions, and elite military personnel from the Navy SEALs and Army Rangers.
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Filming Status: Production is scheduled to begin in mid-2026, with a late-year release target. Unlike the more reserved Korean contestants, the U.S. cast is expected to bring high-energy banter and a “winner-takes-all” American grit.
2. Physical 100: Italia – Modern Gladiators
Italy was the first European country to receive a confirmed country-specific spin-off, titled Physical Italia: da 100 a 1.
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The Casting: The Italian roster is already a “who’s who” of European athleticism, featuring rugby star Mirco Bergamasco, Olympic diver Tania Cagnotto, and even kickboxing enthusiast Elisabetta Canalis.
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Release Window: Currently in post-production, Physical 100: Italia is slated to premiere in the first half of 2026.
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Unique Twist: Rumors suggest the set design draws heavy inspiration from Ancient Rome, turning the “Death Match” into a cinematic Colosseum-style battle.
3. Physical 100: Sweden – The Viking Force
Casting for Physical 100: Sweden officially opened in late 2025, and filming is set for a grueling three-week stint in May 2026.
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The Prize: Winners will take home 1 million Swedish kronor.
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The Talent: Sweden is looking for “Vikings”—strongmen, winter sports athletes, and dancers. Fans are already speculating whether retired football legend Zlatan Ibrahimović might make a surprise appearance.
The Success of ‘Physical: Asia’ as a Blueprint
The road to the 2026 spin-offs was paved by the massive success of Physical: Asia in late 2025. This season changed the game by introducing a “Nation-vs-Nation” format, featuring stars like boxing icon Manny Pacquiao and UFC champion Robert Whittaker.
The success of Physical: Asia proved that national pride is a powerful motivator, leading to the 2026 travelogue spin-off “Physical: Welcome to Mongolia,” which premiered globally on January 1, 2026. This four-part series follows the Korean and Mongolian teams as they explore the rugged landscapes of Mongolia, showing the “human” side of these elite competitors.
Technical Specs: Why We Keep Watching
What makes Physical 100 a global hit isn’t just the muscles—it’s the production value. The 2026 spin-offs are all confirmed to utilize:
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The Plaster Cast Tradition: Each contestant will still have their torso cast in plaster, to be smashed with a sledgehammer upon elimination.
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Cross-Border Editing: While local teams are producing the shows, Netflix is reportedly using Korean consultants to ensure the “respectful yet intense” editing style of the original remains intact.