How Race Across the World casts its pairings – and the secrets behind the new 2026 civilian series

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I recently got a behind-the-scenes look at how ‘Race Across the World’ finds its adventurous couples! With the new season about to kick off, TopMob dug into the casting process – it’s fascinating to see how they put these pairings together for their epic global journey.

We interviewed casting and welfare executive Zyreeta Abadji and series producer Michael Perry to get their perspective.

Zyreeta Abadji, casting and welfare executive

Describe the casting process

The success of Race Across the World depends on finding the right contestants. We’re looking for genuine people who aren’t typical reality TV applicants. Because of this, our selection process is thorough – we spend a lot of time in interviews getting to know their backgrounds, what drives them, and whether they’re strong enough, both physically and emotionally, to handle the challenges of the race.

How do you assess a duo’s relationship when they apply?

Applicants send in a video, and if we feel they have good chemistry, we invite them for a joint interview. We also interview each person individually to ensure they share a similar understanding and vision.

We’re checking to see if their stories match up and seem genuine. We also pay attention to the small details – do their accounts support each other, and do they share relatable or funny stories?

Do you also set them a practical challenge?

As a movie fan, I’m always fascinated by how people behave when things get real. We like to put potential cast members in a tricky situation – stripping away their usual crutches like phones and money – to see what they’re really made of. Do they dive in and try to solve the problem, or do they freeze up? Are they willing to ask for help from strangers? Can they improvise? So, at auditions in London, we give them a simple challenge: “You have one hour to get from here to there, no phone, no money. Go!” Then we film everything to see how they handle it. It’s amazing what happens when you take away those safety nets!

How many applications do you receive?

I started working in 2021, right after the peak of the Covid pandemic, when most people were staying home and watching TV. That year, we received over 100,000 applications – a record we haven’t matched since. Currently, we’re seeing around 40,000 to 50,000 applications, but that number is gradually increasing.

What dream contestant has proved elusive?

We’re looking for a grandfather and grandchild to star in our next series! There’s a special connection between grandparents and grandchildren, and we’d love to capture that on screen. If you or someone you know fits the bill, please get in touch!

And are you looking for a range of ages and backgrounds?

We aim to reach the widest possible audience. We’ve received feedback that our past contributors haven’t always reflected the diversity of our viewers, so we’ve made a conscious effort to include a broader range of voices and backgrounds.

It must be tough telling some applicants they haven’t made it.

It’s really challenging to qualify, as there’s a lot of competition, but only ten competitors ultimately make it. For those who do, it can be a life-changing experience.

It might seem a little sentimental, but this journey really can be transformative. For Brian and Melvyn, who were featured on the last season, the trip helped them reconnect. They learned things about each other they hadn’t known before, bringing them closer together.

Do you have any big travel dreams on the back of your job?

I’ve always wanted to travel in South America, but I’m a little hesitant. I often say I’m up for an adventure, but I wonder if I could actually handle the challenges these courageous travelers are taking on.

Michael Perry, series producer

You helped produce the first season and were responsible for the initial scouting trip from London to Singapore. Can you describe what that experience was like?

The idea was thrilling, but we weren’t sure if it could actually become a successful TV show. We decided to make the experience authentic – participants would travel with the same limited budget as anyone facing the real challenge. It soon became clear this wasn’t just about travel or competition. The heart of the show was the connections people made with others along the way.

What was the experience of being on location as the producer and director for all four seasons, capturing the couples as they traveled?

You’re completely immersed in their world, always with them, mirroring their actions. However, you have to remain an observer and avoid getting involved. It’s tough – you might be tempted to offer help or suggest a better way, but you need to hold back and let them figure things out on their own.

What causes you the most anxiety now?

Normally, the assistant producers following each couple keep us informed throughout the day. However, when the couples are in very remote locations, we lose contact. It’s stressful not knowing what they’re doing.

The exciting show Race Across the World is back on Thursday, April 2nd at 8pm, airing on BBC One and available to stream on iPlayer. You can also catch up on previous seasons – all five of them – on iPlayer now.

Don’t miss Race Across the World! Add it to your watchlist using the TopMob: What to Watch app. Download the app now for daily TV recommendations and exclusive content.

Authors

Sherna Noah

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2026-03-24 04:11