The sixth series of BBC's Race Across the World has returned, and it remains a thrilling and heartfelt journey. The show opens with dramatic shots of ice and snow, before cutting to sunny Palermo, Sicily, where five duos begin their epic race to Hatgal, Mongolia – a destination 12,000km away via seven checkpoints. With only £1,297 each for the entire trip, the contestants must rely on their wits, charm, and a comically unfoldable map to navigate the Silk Road.
The teams are as diverse as ever. Among them are Jo and Kush, two 19-year-old Scousers who are confident in their ability to chat their way through any situation. Then there are siblings Katie and Harrison, whose dynamic revolves around custard creams and sibling bickering. In-laws Mark and Margo provide a poignant subplot, having bonded after caring for Mark's wife (Margo's sister) during her final illness. Cousins Puja and Roshni seek adventure away from their conservative upbringings, while father-daughter duo Andrew and Molly clash over his love of timetables and her desire for freedom.
The first episode sees the teams racing to the first checkpoint in Fiskardo, Greece. The close competition and differing strategies make for compelling viewing. Race Across the World continues to offer a refreshing alternative to more cynical reality TV, focusing on kindness, sincerity, and the emotional journeys of its contestants.
