Race Across the World contestants Jo Diop and Kush Burman discuss fame, friendship, and family

Jo Diop, 19, and Kush Burman, 20, are the youngest competitors in the current season of BBC's Race Across the World. The Liverpool best friends are undertaking a 12,000km journey through Europe and Asia, relying on limited funds and no phones to compete for a £20,000 prize. They have garnered a strong fanbase, although Kush observes that their friends' mothers seem more invested than their peers. While they keep the winner's identity secret, they describe the final stage as "high stress, very tense." To relax, they enjoy basketball and Mongolian throat singing. An emotional moment for Kush arose during a visit to a judo gym in Kazakhstan, reminding him of his stepdad Matt, who died by suicide during lockdown when Kush was 14. Although watching the scene with family was difficult, the positive public response has been uplifting, with many sharing similar experiences. Jo has been a steadfast support throughout. Initially entering the show as a joke after completing their A-levels, they have already signed autographs at a basketball game. If victorious, they aim to share the prize, purchase Jordan 4s, take a holiday, and help Jo's mother with a future home. Kush encourages others to take their time and focus on their own paths. The finale is set to air on BBC One at 20:00 BST on Thursday, 21 May.