We are now only a week away from finding out who Lord Alan Sugar’s next business partner will be as the final of The Apprentice approaches.

But as the end of series 18 nears after 11 weeks, only two candidates were revealed as finalists in last night’s episode (April 11).

Thursday’s show was one many viewers have been waiting for, as the remaining five faced the interviews.

It was Linda Plant, Mike Soutar, Claude Littner and Claudine Collins who interrogated the candidates from CVs to business plans.

But following a boardroom debate and pitch session Lord Sugar fired yet more investment hopefuls.

Who made it to BBC The Aprentice final 2024?

Lord Sugar decided to send Tre Lowe, Flo Edwards and Dr Paul Midha home in a taxi.

This meant pie company owner Phil Turner from Bognor Regis and boutique fitness studio owner Rachel Woolford from Leeds have been confirmed as The Apprentice finalists 2024.

Speaking after his interview, Phil commented (according to Radio Times): "I feel really proud of myself to have made it to the final.

“It's not been the easiest journey, but Lord Sugar was right to see something in me, and that I can be his next business partner."

Rachel also shared her relief, adding: "I can't quite believe that I've made it to this point. This has been such a competitive series with incredible candidates that I’m in absolute awe of.

"To make it to the final is a dream, and I'm just so excited now to showcase my business that I've poured my heart and soul into."

Tre was just one of the final five to praise the pair for making it to the end, he told Radio Times: "I'm still so excited by the process, and I think the two that have got through to the final are formidable."

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When is the final of BBC The Apprentice on TV?

The Apprentice final for 2024 will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Wednesday, April 18 from 9pm.

The episode will be followed by spin-off show The Apprentice: You're Hired as host Tom Allen speaks to the winner and Lord Sugar.