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Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]

IN a thrilling announcement, the beloved motoring series The Grand Tour has revealed its ultimate destination — Zimbabwe. This marks the end of an unforgettable journey that has captivated audiences worldwide.

The series finale, titled One For The Road, will air next Friday on Amazon Prime. A teaser trailer has already whetted appetites, hinting at a spectacular send-off. 

In this thrilling finale shot in September last year, presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May embark on a journey through Zimbabwe, driving a selection of classic 70s cars they’ve always dreamed of owning. Viewers will see Clarkson tearing down the road in a Lancia Montecarlo, Hammond revving the engine of a Ford Capri GXL, and May cruising in a Triumph Stag. The trailer hints at an adrenaline-pumping adventure filled with breath-taking scenery and unexpected challenges, as Clarkson cheekily notes they are saving “the best for last.”

Having filmed in exotic locations like Colombia and Vietnam, the trio chose Zimbabwe to conclude their journey, adding to the allure of Brand Zimbabwe as a destination of choice. 

Zimbabwe has recently welcomed a host of celebrities, from Tommy Hilfiger, Jose Mourinho, Denzel Washington, Michael Jackson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Paris Hilton, and most recently, Miss Universe Queen Sheynnis Palacios, further cementing its reputation as a hotspot for A-listers seeking adventure and authenticity.

As the three hosts reminisce about their 22-year television career, the trailer reveals moments of levity and nostalgia, including Hammond’s witty remark about avoiding the “same old folks home”.

Set to Bonnie Tyler’s emotional ballad, Total Eclipse of the Heart, viewers can look forward to a mix of crocodiles, sinking boats, and the signature camaraderie that has defined their adventures. Clarkson’s heartfelt admission, “I shall certainly miss doing this sort of thing,” perfectly captures the infectious charm of Zimbabwe.

The Grand Tour is a British motoring television series created by Clarkson, Hammond, May, and Wilman. It premiered on Amazon Prime Video on November 18, 2016, following the departure of Clarkson, Hammond, and May from the BBC series Top Gear. The show is renowned for its extravagant and adventurous filming locations, including Colombia, Vietnam, and now Zimbabwe. 

The presenters often take on challenges involving classic cars, such as the upcoming finale where they drive 70s cars through Zimbabwe. Some of the most memorable episodes include the Mongolia Special, where the trio was dropped in the wilderness and had to build a car to escape, and the Funeral for a Ford, which was a tribute to the Ford saloon. The show has also featured numerous celebrity guests, adding to its entertainment value.

“One For The Road,” set to air on September 13, 2024, marks the conclusion of a 22-year-long partnership between Clarkson, Hammond, and May. The decision to end the series is part of a natural progression, as the trio looks forward to new projects, including Clarkson’s Farm and DriveTribe. Despite the end of this era, the legacy of The Grand Tour and its impact on motoring entertainment will continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.

The special promises a stunning road trip through Zimbabwe’s beautiful yet challenging landscapes, culminating in an emotional finale on a strangely familiar island. 

As they transport their beloved vehicles by boat and even attempt to convert them to run on train tracks, the trio’s antics promise to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The trailer’s tease of a Volkswagen New Beetle meeting an untimely end adds to the intrigue, though the details remain delightfully ambiguous — after all, it’s not just about the specifics; it’s about the experience and the joyful interactions between the hosts. — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu.