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Race Around the World, the iconic 90s competition series, returns to ABC for the first time in almost two decades. The revival of the much-loved format puts the focus on fresh perspectives and emerging creative voices. Six filmmakers and content creators from across Australia will take on the challenge, each vying to prove they have what it takes to break through.

In an era of short-form content and instant global connection, Race Around the World honours the spirit of the original whilst reimagining it for the world today. It’s a celebration of authentic, raw storytelling without the filters or shortcuts.

The rules are simple: six filmmakers (William, Mikaela, Jayden, Elliot, Kate and Lucinda) travel solo through 10 different countries and deliver a new short film (2.5 minutes to 4 minutes in length) every 10 days, over a period of 100 days. Working entirely alone, they shoot, write, edit and produce each film from start to finish, before sharing it with a live studio audience back home.

Popular journalist Zan Rowe hosts the series, with John Safran serving as the lead judge in each episode, who will be joined in the live studio recording by two industry pros. Each filmmaker, from wherever they are in the world, will dial into the studio to introduce their film, before the three judges review, rank, and score their work. The judges’ scores will be revealed at the end of each episode.

Every film is a chance to stand out. To stay in the race, filmmakers must captivate and move audiences with their storytelling – it’s only the most compelling ones that will beat the competition.

Beyond winning the series, the highest scoring filmmaker will receive ABC funding to create an original short film (22-28 minutes), premiering exclusively on ABC iview.