“Race Across the World” Season 5 premiered on Wednesday, 23 April 2025, at 9 PM BST on BBC One, with episodes available for streaming on BBC iPlayer. The series airs weekly, offering viewers an exhilarating journey across Asia.​

Route & Format

This season’s race spans approximately 14,000 kilometers, commencing at the Great Wall of China and culminating in Kanniyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. Teams traverse through China, Nepal, and India, navigating diverse terrains and cultures.​

Contestants are challenged to complete the journey without the use of air travel, smartphones, or credit cards. Instead, they rely on physical maps, local transportation, and a limited budget of just over £1,000 per person, equating to approximately £22 per day. The first team to reach the final destination wins a £20,000 prize.

Contestant Teams

Five diverse duos are competing in this season:​

  • Yin & Gaz: Former spouses from the UK, now best friends.​
  • Elizabeth & Letitia: Sisters from West Sussex, aiming to strengthen their bond
  • Brian & Melvyn: Brothers seeking to reconnect through the adventure.
  • Fin & Sioned: Teenage friends from Wales, bringing youthful energy to the race.​
  • Caroline & Tom: Mother and son duo from Bury St Edmunds, embarking on a shared journey of discovery.

Each pair brings unique dynamics and motivations, adding depth to the competition.

Race Across the World All Seasons
Race Across the World Season 03
Race Across the World Season 04
Race Across the World Season 05

Episode 01 | Episode 02 | Episode 03 | Episode 04 | Episode 05 | Episode 06 | Episode 07 | Episode 08 | Episode 09