Introduction to the Boat Race

Tuesday 15 April 2025 6:00 pm | Updated: Tuesday 15 April 2025 4:55 pm

Sunday’s women’s Boat Race became the country’s most watched female sporting event this year, TV broadcasting data has revealed.

Sunday’s women’s Boat Race became the country’s most watched female sporting event this year, TV broadcasting data has revealed.

The peak figure of over 2.1m tops the previous 2025 record, when 1.2m watched England’s Lionesses play in the Uefa Women’s Nations League match against Belgium on ITV1, which took place earlier this month at Bristol City’s Ashton Gate.

Kantar analysis for BARB figures suggest there was a 14 per cent growth in audience viewership on last year’s edition, which saw the Oxford University and Cambridge University women’s crews clash oars early on, and a 25 per cent hike on share of views.

It comes as 2.8m tuned in for the Boat Race coverage on BBC 1, where both Cambridge crews stormed to victories along the River Thames in an event which is estimated to contribute up to £15m to the local London economies of Fulham, Putney and the surrounding areas.

Boat Race Surging Ahead

Chair of the Boat Race Company, Siobhan Cassidy, commented: “The Boat Race represents the best of British – two world-leading universities competing in one of the oldest major sporting events.

“Each year we tell the stories of the highs and lows of the student athletes competing in this amateur race – epitomising the athletic challenge, personal sacrifice and teamwork required to secure a seat in the boat.”

The 2025 race – sponsored by Chanel for the first time – was shrouded in controversy, however, with Oxford using rule technicalities surrounding educational degrees to force Cambridge rowers out of their boat before the race and severe concerns being raised around the quality of the capital’s waterways.

The results on Sunday, in front of an estimated 200,000 fans on the banks of the River Thames, extended Cambridge’s winning margins to 88-81 in the men’s race and 49-30 in the women’s edition. They’ve enjoyed recent dominance in the regatta.

Impact of the Boat Race

The Boat Race has a significant impact on the local economy, with estimates suggesting that it contributes up to £15m to the local London economies of Fulham, Putney, and the surrounding areas. This is a substantial amount, and it highlights the importance of the event to the local community.

In addition to the economic impact, the Boat Race also has a significant social impact. It brings together people from all over the world, creating a sense of community and camaraderie among spectators and participants alike.

History of the Boat Race

The Boat Race has a long and rich history, dating back to 1829. It was first held on June 10, 1829, at Henley-on-Thames, and it has been held annually since then. The race has been the subject of much controversy over the years, with disputes over rules, cheating, and other issues.

Despite these controversies, the Boat Race remains one of the most popular and enduring sporting events in the world. It is a testament to the power of sport to bring people together and to create a sense of community and shared experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Boat Race is a significant event that has a substantial impact on the local economy and community. It is a testament to the power of sport to bring people together and to create a sense of community and shared experience. The event has a rich history, and it continues to be a popular and enduring sporting event.

The 2025 Boat Race was a significant event, with Cambridge emerging victorious in both the men’s and women’s races. The event was watched by a record-breaking audience, and it highlighted the growing popularity of women’s sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Boat Race?

A: The Boat Race is a rowing competition between the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. It is held annually on the River Thames in London.

Q: When was the first Boat Race held?

A: The first Boat Race was held on June 10, 1829, at Henley-on-Thames.

Q: Which university has won the most Boat Races?

A: Cambridge University has won the most Boat Races, with 88 wins in the men’s race and 49 wins in the women’s race.

Q: How many people watched the 2025 Boat Race?

A: The 2025 Boat Race was watched by a record-breaking audience of 2.8m people on BBC 1.

Q: What is the economic impact of the Boat Race?

A: The Boat Race is estimated to contribute up to £15m to the local London economies of Fulham, Putney, and the surrounding areas.