The world’s most famous rowing event is back this weekend, with squads from Oxford and Cambridge taking part in the annual Boat Race. It will take place over 4.25 miles of the tidal River Thames in London, where Oxford will be hoping to win back the bragging rights. Cambridge triumphed in the men’s and women’s races last year and will have high hopes of claiming the spoils once again.
The record currently stands at 87-81 in favour of Cambridge, who have also dominated in the women’s category by winning the last seven editions. A fierce contest can be expected this year as Oxford look to reverse their current fortunes. Hundreds of spectators will be lining the banks of the Thames, with thousands more glued to their screens at home.
But what does the winner get? Express Sport takes a look…
Boat Race 2025 prize money
Unlike other high-profile sporting events, there is no prize money awarded to the winning team in the Boat Race. Instead, the crews are presented with trophies to commemorate the occasion.
The men’s victors will receive the Aberdeen Quaich, a small silver trophy which includes several interesting features such as a map of the course on the interior. It also has an interchangeable lid, which carries either an ox or a lion depending on who has won.
Meanwhile, the winning women’s team will lift the Newton Trophy, which has been awarded since 2014. The base of the trophy includes symbols of a lion and a crown, representing the clubs involved, as well as apples and scales.
How to watch the Boat Race 2025
If you are in London, you can watch the Boat Race by simply finding a good spot on the riverbank. You can also make your way to one of the designated fan parks, located at Furnivall Gardens and Fulham’s home stadium Craven Cottage. There is free entry at both fan parks and tickets are not required.
If you are not planning on heading down, you can watch the Boat Race live on BBC One with coverage starting from 12.20pm. All the action can also be streamed live on BBC iPlayer, which will have extended post-race coverage.
The Boat Race 2025 schedule
Please note that all times listed are in BST, which is GMT+1.
12.20pm: BBC One coverage starts
1.21pm: Women’s Boat Race
1:36pm: Women’s Reserve Race: Osiris v Blondie
1.51pm: Men’s Reserve Race: Isis v Goldie
2.21pm: Men’s Boat Race
2.45pm: Women’s Presentation (Mortlake)
2.55pm: Men’s Presentation (Mortlake)
3.10pm: BBC One coverage ends
