Episode 1

Five intrepid teams embark on the journey of a lifetime, racing more than 12,000km across Europe and Asia, the largest continental area on earth. The route carves through eight distinctive countries: Italy, Greece, Türkiye, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia – each with its own language, culture and climate. In the most extreme race to date, conditions swing from 30°C Mediterranean heat to subarctic temperatures of -20°C. And they’ve got to do it all on a budget of less than £26 per person per day.

The teams will race from Palermo on the island of Sicily all the way to the remote village of Hatgal on the shores of Lake Hövsgöl in northern Mongolia. Retracing parts of the ancient Silk Road, they will follow in the footsteps of traders who once connected the west and east across these vast, unforgiving landscapes. They will have to navigate their way from the bustling streets of Italy – one of the world’s most visited destinations – to one of its most remote, the windswept Mongolian Steppe. With smartphones, internet access and bank cards left behind, they are armed with nothing but the cash equivalent of flying the route.

The race begins in the city of Palermo, the capital of the Mediterranean’s largest island and most conquered city in Europe. To reach the first checkpoint, teams must first travel through southern Italy. A ferry across the Tyrrhenian Sea could propel them straight to the vibrant city of Naples, or they could choose to travel by land through the rugged region of Calabria, passing hilltop hamlets and coastal enclaves, each with its own unique character. Once in Puglia, the race continues across the Adriatic towards the first checkpoint: Fiskardo on the island of Kefalonia.

Childhood best friends from Liverpool, Jo and Kush, who are both 19, are the youngest duo in the race. Still living at home with their mums and fresh out of school, this is their first real taste of independence. Their Scouse charm and willingness to throw themselves into local life proves fruitful, but when they cross paths with another team, their laid-back approach gives way to a more competitive streak!

Inseparable siblings Katie, 20, and Harrison, 23, from Manchester, may do everything together, but they could not be more different when it comes to the race. Accountant Harrison’s laser-like focus on the budget and high-paid work takes them to an upmarket cafe in Naples, leaving Katie to embrace whatever comes their way.

Junior doctor Molly, 23, and her father Andrew, 54, have always been close, but as Molly prepares to begin her medical career, she wants to prove to her dad that she is more capable than he gives her credit for. Geography teacher Andrew’s desire to explore sees them head away from the main transport hubs and into a labyrinth of sea caves in Maratea.

Puja, 31, and her cousin Roshni, 32, spent their twenties building successful careers and putting wanderlust on hold. Determined to stretch every penny, their plan to avoid pricey areas and expensive transport leads them towards a rural homestay and a more authentic Italian travel experience.

Unlikely duo Mark, 66, and Margo, 59, have spent the past 40 years with a typically fractious in-law relationship. But after recently putting their differences aside in pursuit of a shared goal – caring for a loved one – they have developed a fondness for each other’s company. A slow start leaves them trailing the pack, exposing their very different approaches to the race. And when faced with expensive Italian accommodation, they’re forced to put their friendship to the ultimate test... sharing a double bed!

The race will test the five teams both physically and emotionally, pushing them to their absolute limits. But with their feet on the ground and their eyes wide open, the rewards will be immense, and the memories unforgettable. Only one team can emerge victorious as they battle to be the first to reach the finish line and claim the £20,000 prize in their race across the world.