University Challenge: Leeds team takes on famously difficult BBC quiz show for first time in 13 years

The famous quiz show, which is known for its niche questions on academic subjects, is considered to be one of the toughest tests of knowledge in the country.

It has been 13 years since a team from the University of Leeds has made it onto the programme - and this year's contestants will be aiming to make a strong comeback.

Led by captain Alexander Tan, who is studying for a degree in computer science, the team will be up against rivals from the University of Edinburgh on Monday night's (October 28) episode.

Joining him are Finn Thompson, studying law; Jayan Patel, studying mechatronics and robotics; Ingrid Marvin, studying media and communications; and reserve Callum Ormerod, studying physics.

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In promotional photos, the Leeds team can be seen posing alongside host Amol Rajan in the studio along with a quirky addition – an adorable pink toy mascot that the team brought along for good luck.

A spokesperson for Leeds University Union said: “The students and the staff at Leeds University Union are excited to tune in to University Challenge on Monday evening.

“After a competitive qualifying process, we know the team is very proud to be representing the University of Leeds on the television broadcast. We wish them the best of luck.”

Leeds has a long history with University Challenge, having first appeared on the very first episode of the show back in 1962. Since the programme’s move to BBC Two in 1994, this will mark the university’s sixth appearance.

In their most recent outing in the 2011/12 contest, the University of Leeds secured a victory in round one against Goldsmiths, London, before losing to Clare College, Cambridge, in the second round.

The furthest Leeds has ever reached in the competition was in the 2002/03 series when they advanced to the semi-finals, only to be beaten by Cranfield University.

While this season marks their return to the main series, Leeds has tasted more recent success in the festive edition of University Challenge, a light-hearted version of the competition played over the Christmas holidays. In 2019, a team of alumni, including Reverend Richard Coles, won the trophy.

The University of Leeds is set to make its return to the competition in the first round match airing on BBC Two on Monday (October 28) at 8.30pm.