The pair teamed up against Brit award-winning songwriter Ella Eyre and her childhood friend Nana; influencer Princess and her musician brother Junior – the children of Katie Price and Peter Andre; and popular singer songwriter Sam Ryder who was taking part with his best friend and tour manager Kaz.
All eight competitors had to leave their phones, credit cards and home comforts behind – and work with a very limited budget – on their journey of a lifetime.
The eight set off from the vibrant city of Kuching, in the Malaysian state of Sarawak in North West Borneo, with their destination Melbourne, on the sunbaked southern tip of Australia – almost 3,500 miles!
Described as the show’s toughest race yet, the teams travelled across wilderness – in sizzling conditions – to reach their ultimate destination over the programme’s nine weeks.
Jeff, now 71 and best known for presenting Sky’s “Soccer Saturday” for a staggering 29 years, said before setting off: “Work’s been a massive part of my life. Now I don’t quite have the demands that I used to have, so it’s perfect timing.”
Football enthusiast Matt said: “It’s all aligned. In my time in hostels I have to say, I didn’t see a single backpacker in their 70s” to which Jeff added: “My experience, your youth – what better combination could you have?”
The pair found the first day tough going, mainly due to the adverse conditions. Opting to stay in Kuching overnight and taking a coach in the morning, they reached the first of five checkpoints in third place.
Jeff, still as witty as ever, said: “I’m 71 now – there are things I can’t do – like sprint with a backpack! Heat, hills, steps, backpack, dodgy knees – the worst combination ever!”
“Celebrity Race Across the World” can be seen on BBC1, every Wednesday at 8pm or on iPlayer.
