The new celebrity edition of Race Across The World kicked off with four pairs competing in a challenging 7,500-kilometer journey from Borneo to Melbourne. The contestants must travel without the use of mobile phones or flights and operate on a minimal budget, adding to the difficulty of the race.

Among the competitors are Jeff Stelling, the former Sky Sports Soccer Saturday host now working at talkSPORT, and his son Matt. At 71, Jeff faces physical challenges early on, citing the combination of heat, hills, carrying a backpack, and a troublesome knee as particularly demanding.

Another duo features Princess and her brother Junior, children of media personalities Katie Price and Peter Andre. Princess, described as an influencer, emphasized their desire to establish their own identities separate from their famous parents, stating that they are often compared to them but are pursuing their own paths.

Singer-songwriter Ella Eyre teams up with her friend Nana, while former Eurovision runner-up Sam Ryder participates alongside his friend Kaz. Sam is noted for nearly winning Eurovision in 2022, finishing just behind Ukraine. During the initial leg of the race, he learned a traditional song from villagers whose land he was assisting, appreciating its melody despite language barriers.

The first episode highlights not only the physical and mental endurance required for the race but also the personal stories and dynamics among the contestants as they navigate harsh conditions and cultural encounters on their way to Melbourne.