When Does The Amazing Race Start? The Shocking New Schedule For Season 39 And Beyond
The question of "When does The Amazing Race start?" is one of the most frequently asked by reality TV fans, especially now that the series has settled into a consistent, yet sometimes unpredictable, two-season-per-year schedule. As of today, Thursday, December 18, 2025, the most recent season, The Amazing Race 38, has just concluded its exhilarating run, leaving viewers eager for the next global dash. The good news is that the race is definitely returning, but the latest CBS scheduling news points to a significant wait for the next premiere.
The official start date for the next installment, The Amazing Race 39, is currently anticipated for the Fall 2026 television season. This projected date reflects CBS's recent programming decisions, which often see the flagship reality competition paired with other major shows like Survivor. While the exact day and time have not been finalized, the wait will be longer than the usual gap between seasons, giving fans plenty of time to rewatch classic legs and speculate on the new race route.
The Official Timeline: When to Expect The Amazing Race 39
Following the successful conclusion of The Amazing Race 38 on December 10, 2025, attention immediately shifts to the next cycle. The show's production schedule has historically been a well-oiled machine, but network programming needs can shift the air dates dramatically. The current expectation is a return to a Fall schedule, but a year later than some fans might have hoped.
A Look Back: The Amazing Race 37 & 38 Start Dates
To understand the scheduling for the upcoming season, it helps to look at the most recent premieres, which set the tone for the show's current format:
- The Amazing Race 37: This season premiered on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, airing at 9:30 p.m. PT/ET. It ran for 90-minute episodes, a format change that has become a staple of the series. The season concluded in May 2025.
- The Amazing Race 38: The subsequent season premiered on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT, before settling into its regular Wednesday night slot. The finale provided a tight finish on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
The gap between the end of Season 38 and the anticipated Fall 2026 start for Season 39 is a significant departure from the typical six-to-nine-month turnaround, suggesting that CBS is reserving the reality giant for a major slot in its 2026-2027 lineup.
What to Expect from The Amazing Race 39: Host, Format, and Route
While the premiere date remains a moving target, several key details about The Amazing Race 39 are already known, offering a glimpse into the next global adventure hosted by the ever-present Phil Keoghan.
The Host and Format: Phil Keoghan's Return and 90-Minute Episodes
The face of the franchise, Phil Keoghan, is confirmed to return for Season 39. His steady presence and iconic "The world is waiting" catchphrase remain central to the show's appeal. Furthermore, the popular 90-minute episode format is expected to continue. This extended runtime allows for a deeper exploration of the challenges, the culture of the host countries, and the interpersonal dynamics of the competing teams, greatly enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The show’s longevity is a testament to its compelling structure, which features Roadblocks, Detours, and the dreaded U-Turn, all designed to test the teams' physical and mental fortitude as they race toward the next Pit Stop.
The Race Route: From Vancouver to Honolulu
Unlike the air date, the filming details for Season 39 are relatively concrete, giving fans a preview of the exotic locales the teams will traverse. The race is reported to have begun in Vancouver, Canada, and concluded in the scenic state of Hawaii, specifically Honolulu, HI.
The route between these two points remains a closely guarded secret, but the inclusion of a starting location in North America and a finish line in the Pacific suggests a diverse array of countries and challenges. Past seasons have featured entities like Dubai, Hong Kong, and New York, meaning the Season 39 teams will likely face a mix of urban navigation, cultural immersion, and extreme physical tasks.
Potential Twists and Season 40 Teases
Host Phil Keoghan has been vocal about the show's continuous evolution, teasing new twists for the upcoming season. He has hinted at a "special personal moment" coming in The Amazing Race 39, which often means a new mechanic to shake up the competition or a unique challenge tied to a specific location.
Looking even further ahead, there are already whispers about The Amazing Race 40. Keoghan has mentioned that this milestone season might involve fan-selected teams and other major format changes, suggesting the producers are always looking for ways to keep the reality competition fresh and engaging for the long-time audience.
How to Watch and Stream The Amazing Race
Knowing when The Amazing Race starts is only half the battle; knowing where to watch it is equally important. The show remains a cornerstone of CBS's programming lineup, but streaming options have made it more accessible than ever before.
Live Broadcast and On-Demand
New episodes of The Amazing Race will air live on the CBS television network, typically in the Wednesday night time slot following the conclusion of Survivor. The specific time, whether 9:00 p.m. ET/PT or 9:30 p.m. ET/PT, will be confirmed closer to the premiere date, so fans should monitor the CBS schedule for the official announcement.
Streaming on Paramount+
For viewers who prefer to stream, Paramount+ is the official home for the series. Subscribers can watch new episodes live as they air, or catch up on-demand the day after the broadcast. This platform is also the best resource for binge-watching past seasons, allowing fans to revisit classic moments, from the famous "hay bale needle in the haystack" challenge to the most intense final legs.
The show's availability on Paramount+ ensures that the reality competition remains easily accessible, catering to both the traditional television audience and the modern streaming viewer. The platform also often features exclusive content and behind-the-scenes looks, adding extra value for dedicated fans.
Topical Authority: The Amazing Race's Enduring Legacy
The enduring success of The Amazing Race, which is now approaching its 40th season, is a testament to its unique blend of travel, strategy, and high-stakes competition. The show has won numerous Emmy Awards for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program, solidifying its place as a television institution.
The show’s ability to weave together global destinations with intense personal drama keeps its topical authority high. Essential entities like the Route Markers, Fast Forwards, and the race's iconic Pit Stops are instantly recognizable to millions worldwide. The show doesn't just entertain; it provides a cultural snapshot of the diverse locations visited, from the bustling markets of India to the ancient ruins of Greece.
While the wait for the Fall 2026 premiere of The Amazing Race 39 may feel long, the production team, led by Phil Keoghan, is clearly focused on delivering another high-quality, fresh, and unforgettable season. Keep an eye on the official CBS and Paramount+ channels for the definitive start date announcement in the coming months.
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