The Block 2026: Steph Ottavio defends Courtney and Sev amid wine-cellar feud, questions judges

Courtney and Sev paid $14,500 for a wine-cellar installation reportedly valued at about $100,000, sparking questions about the show’s discount rules. Block legend Steph Ottavio has defended Courtney and Sev against online attacks, warning the show’s judging is helping turn viewers against contestants. The architect and 2023 champion said the pair had faced unfair personal criticism as their increasingly bitter rivalry with Adam and Jolene spilled into the final week. But while she sided with their rivals over the design of their controversial wine cellars, Ms Ottavio said the judges were helping create a narrative that could make Courtney and Sev targets. RELATED: Ferrari fan splashes $4.3m on Melb mansion Unemployed Aus 23yo now $2bn richer at 29 ‘I’m going into debt’: Vic renter’s nightmare She suggested the judges’ praise had put the pair on a pedestal while Australians were naturally inclined to support an underdog. Her intervention follows Sunday’s backyard and garage reveal, when the rival teams tied on 34.5 points after unveiling competing wine cellars. Courtney and Sev paid $14,500 for a curved installation reportedly worth about $100,000, while Adam and Jolene spent $20,00...