On Sunday, April 13, the historic Boat Race returns to the waters of the Thames, where Oxford and Cambridge will go head-to-head once again. With the Light Blues dominating in recent years, Oxford arrives with a revamped crew and newfound ambition to dethrone their rivals. The upcoming clash promises a thrilling spectacle on London’s iconic river.
Photos : Boat Race/DR
A historic rivalry, as fierce as ever
Stretching across 6.8 kilometers between Putney and Mortlake, the Championship Course will see the men’s and women’s Blue Boats pushing themselves to the limit for glory. Cambridge, the reigning powerhouse winning the last seven women’s editions and six of the last eight men’s races—enters as the favorite. Oxford, however, is determined to challenge the status quo with new training methods and a roster packed with Olympic pedigree. Adding to the tension, a selection dispute disrupted Cambridge’s preparation: three of their rower PGCE students, were ruled ineligible following an official challenge from Oxford. Whether this will impact Cambridge’s dominance remains to be seen when the boats hit the water.
Race schedule and where to watch
Fans can catch the women’s race at 13:20 BST and the mmen’s race at 14:20 BST, both broadcast live on BBC.
Photos : Boat Race/DR
The crews ready for battle
Oxford Women’s crew
Led by Heidi Long, a Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medalist, Oxford boasts serious experience. Alongside her, Kyra Delray, a junior and U23 champion returning from double hip surgery, adds depth to the squad.
Cambridge Women’s crew
The defending champions feature Samy Morton, an Olympic reserve in 2024, and Claire Collins,a two-time Olympian and world bronze medalist. Their boat also includes Gemma King, who will race her seventh Boat Race, and Carys Earl, who helped Cambridge clinch last year’s victory.
Oxford Men’s crew
Oxford comes armed with Olympic firepower: Tom Mackintosh, Tokyo 2020 gold medalist for New Zealand; Nico Kohl, an Italian Olympian at Paris 2024; and Nick Rusher, who won bronze in the men’s eight last summer. With a family history rooted in Olympic rowing, Rusher leads an experienced, battle-ready lineup.
Cambridge Men’s crew
While not as internationally decorated, Cambridge relies on expertise and cohesion. James Robson, at 30 years old, is the team’s veteran, while Noam Mouelle and Luca Ferraro bring past Boat Race triumphs. Douwe de Graaf, part of Team GB’s development squad for Los Angeles 2028, adds further talent.
Photos : Boat Race/DR
A showdown that could go either way
With high stakes, deep-rooted rivalries, and unpredictable tensions, everything is on the line this Sunday afternoon. Will Oxford disrupt Cambridge’s reign, or will the Light Blues extend their dominance? One thing is certain: the 2025 Boat Race will be an unmissable event, where every stroke, every surge, and every wave could tip the balance in this legendary competition.
Photos : Boat Race/DR
