The Amazing Race Season 39 premieres September 30, 2026 on CBS with a two-night event, Phil Keoghan hosting and a $1 million prize.
When does The Amazing Race Season 39 premiere?
Season 39 begins with a two-night premiere event on Wednesday, September 30 and Thursday, October 1. The first episode airs at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on CBS, and the season is available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+ according to plan availability.
- Premiere: September 30, 2026
- Second premiere night: October 1, 2026
- Network: CBS
- Streaming: Paramount+
- Host: Phil Keoghan
Who is racing this season?
CBS says the new field includes professional athletes Ali Krieger and Joanna Lohman, mother and daughter Ann-Marie and Riley Tejcek, grandfather and grandson Doug and Dylan Matter, and Ivy League graduates Jody Rebhun and Jenn Naso. The complete cast is made up of teams of two with an existing relationship, as in prior seasons.
What is at stake?
Teams will navigate international destinations and complete physical and mental challenges while trying to avoid elimination. The first team to reach the final destination wins the announced $1 million prize. CBS has not disclosed every route location in advance, preserving the season's travel reveals.
Frequently asked questions
When does The Amazing Race Season 39 start?
Season 39 premieres Wednesday, September 30, 2026, with the second night of the premiere event on October 1.
Who hosts The Amazing Race Season 39?
Phil Keoghan returns as host and executive producer.
What is the prize on The Amazing Race?
The winning team receives $1 million.