Race Across the World poster

Race Across the World

"How would you race across the globe... if you couldn't fly?"

TV Show 2019 7.1 /10 Returning
BBC One A BBC One Original

Two teams set out on a high octane race around the globe where the only rule is there are no flights and no phones to help them. They pick their own land and sea routes, facing muddy roads, customs hurdles, and weather swings as they chase the finish line. There are no shortcuts, only grit,... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: January 14, 2026

About Race Across the World

Two teams set out on a high octane race around the globe where the only rule is there are no flights and no phones to help them. They pick their own land and sea routes, facing muddy roads, customs hurdles, and weather swings as they chase the finish line. There are no shortcuts, only grit, planning, and a constant stream of small decisions that test trust and seamanship in unexpected places. With every border crossed and budget stretched, the pressure mounts while friendships are tested and pride is on the line. The clock becomes a relentless character in their global scramble. The show thrives on the unknown as teams chase time and accuracy, revealing surprising strengths and frailties in their partnership. Audiences follow the map through bustling markets and remote tracks, feeling the pressure rise with every checkpoint.

Released in 2019, the show is a British reality competition narrated by John Hannah. It exists as an original format, not adapted from any prior work.

Viewers respond to its emphasis on planning, teamwork, and endurance over flashy production. The program foregrounds real world obstacles, budget constraints, and cultural surprises, inviting reflection on how people improvise when resources shrink and time pressure grows. Personal stories and rivalries emerge without scripting, giving the show a human texture.

Its premise of long form travel without modern shortcuts has influenced audiences seeking grounded, human centered competition. By spotlighting resilience and collaboration under pressure, it helped popularize travel reality that values problem solving and cultural exchange as much as speed. It also sparked conversations about travel ethics and pace.

Awards: The show has earned positive notices from viewers and critics, but it has not become a major awards fixture. It remains noted for its bold departure from formulaic competition and its focus on ordinary challenges over spectacle.

Details

Release Date
March 03, 2019
User Ratings
19 votes
Type
TV Series
Seasons
5
Episodes
42
Network
BBC One, BBC Two
Status
Returning Series
Genres
Reality
Country
United Kingdom
Studio
Studio Lambert
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

John Hannah

John Hannah

Self - Narrator (voice)

Seasons (5 seasons, 42 episodes)

Season 1

Season 1

6 episodes - 2019

Season 2

Season 2

9 episodes - 2020

Season 3

Season 3

9 episodes - 2023

Season 4

Season 4

9 episodes - 2024

S5

Season 5

9 episodes - 2025

More from Studio Lambert

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Frequently Asked Questions

Race Across the World is not currently available to stream, rent, or buy online in the US. Check back later for updates.

Race Across the World has 5 seasons with a total of 42 episodes.

With a rating of 7.1/10 from 19 viewers, Race Across the World is well-regarded and recommended by viewers.

Two teams set out on a high octane race around the globe where the only rule is there are no flights and no phones to help them. They pick their own land and sea routes, facing muddy roads, customs hurdles, and weather swings as they chase the finish line. There are no shortcuts, only grit, plann...

Race Across the World stars John Hannah.

Race Across the World was released on March 03, 2019.

Race Across the World is a Reality series.

John Hannah provides the narration for Race Across the World, credited as Self - Narrator (voice). The narration guides viewers through the contestants' cross-country journey.

Race Across the World is a reality competition where travellers race across the world without flights or phones, choosing any route to reach the finish first. The show follows pairs as they navigate diverse countries and cultures along the way.

The series has 5 seasons and 42 episodes. It’s currently listed as a returning series.

Race Across the World premiered in 2019. It has a rating of 7.053 out of 10.