Race Across the World: Jo and Kush say finale is 'very tense'

Best friends Kush Burman and Jo Diop have captivated audiences as they embark on their journey to northern Mongolia in the BBC series Race Across the World.

This reality show challenges pairs of travelers to navigate a 12,000 km (7,450 miles) route across Europe and Asia without the aid of phones and with limited financial resources. The pair that reaches the finish line first is awarded a prize of £20,000.

While Jo and Kush, both from Liverpool, are not disclosing the outcome of the final leg, they emphasize that viewers should prepare for a "high stress, very tense" episode.

"Expect nothing, have no expectations," states 20-year-old Kush. "It's a wild place, Mongolia."

"It really is, there's no roads," adds 19-year-old Jo. "You might as well just not have the maps."

Their journey so far

Throughout the series, audiences have witnessed moments of leisure for Jo and Kush, such as playing basketball and enjoying Mongolian throat singing.

However, an emotionally charged visit to a judo gym in Kazakhstan resulted in a poignant moment for Kush, as it invoked memories of his stepfather, Matt. Viewers saw Kush tear up as he shared that he was just 14 years old when Matt took his own life during the lockdown.

Kush tells BBC Newsbeat that watching the emotional scene alongside his family was challenging.

"Usually when we talk about my dad, it's in a more light-hearted context, like 'do you remember this?'" he explains. "But discussing the feelings and emotions behind it can be quite tough."

He also mentions the overwhelming public response, with many individuals who've experienced similar situations reaching out to him.

"It's been such a big influx of messages and comments, but if I could say thank you to everyone, then this is my thank-you."

Their friendship

Kush credits his friend Jo for providing support during these vulnerable moments. Their close relationship has resonated with viewers.

Kush notes that Jo has always been there for him during significant life events.

"I think you know best than anyone what I need to hear... and that definitely helps when I'm discussing these situations because you know what to say."

Jo concurs, affirming that they have always been integral parts of each other's lives.

"So we've both witnessed each other in our lowest states, and I think when those times arise in the race, it's not a surprise for us," he explains.

"I feel like we understand through experience how to bounce back and counter each other's negativity."

Life after the race

Jo and Kush confess that their decision to join the show originated as "a bit of a joke" after they completed their A-levels. Regardless of their future paths, they will have to navigate newfound recognition.

"I love it so much," says Kush. "Yesterday we signed our first autographs, which I thought was so sweet."

Jo reminisces about an encounter at a basketball game when three boys approached them: "Yo, Jo and Kush, can you sign us?"

If they are fortunate enough to win the £20,000 prize, the pair agree to split it equally, as both express aspirations of further travel.

"We'd have to spend a little bit on ourselves," Jo shares. "I'd probably get a nice pair of Jordan 4s for a new outfit and a little holiday, and save the rest."

In keeping with their family values, he also intends to "contribute to a future house for my mum at some point."

Kush echoes this sentiment, indicating that he is planning a few more gap years and has learned invaluable life lessons from his Race Across the World experience.

"There is no rush; don't do anything for anyone else," he advises. "If you want to go traveling, do it. If you don't, that's also fine. Just ensure you're not doing things for the sake of it and you genuinely enjoy what you're doing."

The much-anticipated finale of Race Across the World airs on BBC One at 20:00 BST on Thursday, May 21, and will also be available for streaming on iPlayer.