Around the World in 80 Days: A global challenge making a real difference

The Fine & Country Foundation is gearing up for the return of one of its most inspiring global initiatives: the Around the World in 80 Days Challenge. Launching on Wednesday 13 May 2026, this ambitious fundraising effort follows the success of its 2022 campaign and promises to bring together people from across the globe for a shared purpose.

A collective journey with a powerful goal

At its heart, the challenge is simple but impactful – participants will work together to travel a combined distance of 40,070 kilometres over 80 days, the equivalent of circumnavigating the Earth. Whether walking, running, cycling, or swimming, every mile logged contributes to the overall goal and helps raise vital funds for those affected by homelessness and poverty.

Participants will track their progress using a fitness app, complete with a live leaderboard that adds a friendly competitive edge. It’s not just about individual achievement, it’s about collective impact.

Bringing a global community together

One of the most powerful aspects of this initiative is its ability to unite the international Fine & Country network alongside family, friends, and local communities. Known for its strong culture of charitable giving, the network regularly supports The Foundation through events like marathons, gala evenings, and endurance challenges. This initiative builds on that spirit, offering a unique opportunity for everyone to rally behind a single, meaningful cause.

With the challenge kicking off in mid-May, participants can also take advantage of longer days and warmer weather, making it the perfect time to get active while supporting something bigger than themselves.

Turning effort into impact

To support fundraising efforts, a dedicated JustGiving page has been set up, making it easy for participants to share their journey and encourage donations. Every contribution goes directly toward helping charities on the front lines of homelessness and poverty.

Funds raised will be distributed through The Foundation’s Spring and Autumn grant schemes, with grants of up to £3,000 awarded to organisations in need. The greater the fundraising success, the more charities can benefit, extending the reach and impact of the initiative even further.

A shared purpose that matters

As Emile Despois, Trustee of The Fine & Country Foundation, explains: “The Around the World in 80 Days Challenge is a fantastic way to bring our entire network together in support of a cause that truly matters. We’ve seen incredible dedication from our network over the years, and this initiative builds on that spirit, combining teamwork, friendly competition, and a shared purpose. Every step taken and every pound raised helps us extend The Foundation’s impact and provide critical support to charities making a real difference in people’s lives.”

Making every step count

Through initiatives like this, The Fine & Country Foundation continues to act as a lifeline for charitable organisations around the world. The 2026 challenge has the potential to transform lives, not just through funds raised, but through the sense of unity and purpose it inspires.

Whether you’re clocking up miles, cheering others on, or contributing to the cause, this is more than just a challenge – it’s a global movement for good.

So, lace up your trainers, rally your community, and be part of something extraordinary. Every step truly counts.