In a surprising move, Channel Ten has officially confirmed that the popular reality competition series The Amazing Race Australia will not be returning to television screens in 2026. This decision comes as a significant blow to fans and the network's programming plans, given the show's recent success and high-profile status.
Network Confirms Cancellation
A spokesperson for Channel Ten delivered the news to the Daily Mail on Thursday, attributing the cancellation to 'several factors' that ultimately made the production unfeasible for the upcoming year. The spokesperson elaborated, stating, 'We’ve been working on another brilliant new season of The Amazing Race Australia, but due to several factors including travel logistics, it will not be part of our 2026 program schedule.'
Shock Decision Amidst Active Planning
Insiders have revealed that casting for the 2026 season was already well underway when the announcement was made, adding to the shock of the cancellation. 'This wasn’t some small side project. It was one of their major shows,' an insider commented, highlighting the show's importance to the network's lineup. The decision to axe the programme mid-casting is described as 'almost unheard of' in the industry.
The cancellation is particularly unexpected because The Amazing Race Australia was prominently promoted as one of Channel Ten's flagship shows for 2026 during the network's annual Upfronts event held in November. This positioning underscored its anticipated role in attracting viewers and advertising revenue.
Logistical Challenges and Future Hopes
While the news is disappointing, industry observers note that the sheer scale of planning required for The Amazing Race Australia makes the hiatus somewhat understandable. The show involves ferrying cast and crew to multiple international locations, a complex and costly endeavour that can be susceptible to various logistical hurdles, including global travel uncertainties and budgeting constraints.
However, there is a silver lining for devoted fans. Channel Ten has not ruled out a potential return for the series in 2027, leaving the door open for future productions. The cancellation is not due to a lack of audience interest, as evidenced by the strong performance of the 2025 season.
Strong Ratings from the 2025 Season
The most recent season of The Amazing Race Australia performed admirably in the ratings, demonstrating its continued appeal. The 2025 season averaged 813,000 national viewers, which represented a 7 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The grand finale proved to be a major ratings winner for Channel Ten, attracting an impressive 1.1 million total national viewers.
The 2025 season concluded with a memorable victory for Australian actors Stephen and Bernard Curry, who became the first team to cross the finish line. The brothers secured the top prize of $100,000 for their chosen charity, One in Five, which raises funds for mental health research. 'We know winning The Amazing Race is a really tough thing to do, and we've done it,' Stephen said after their win. 'I can't even believe it. And to have the experience with my best friend, my brother, is something that I will just never, ever forget.'
Fans enthusiastically celebrated the Curry brothers' victory on social media, voicing strong support for the duo and the series. This positive reception underscores the show's loyal fanbase and its cultural impact.
As Channel Ten recalibrates its 2026 schedule, the absence of The Amazing Race Australia will undoubtedly leave a gap. Yet, with its recent ratings success and ongoing fan enthusiasm, hopes remain high for a triumphant return in the years to come, pending the resolution of the logistical challenges that prompted this temporary pause.
