80th Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

Race Results — Final Outcome

The 80th Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has now concluded after a demanding passage south.

Line honours were claimed by Master Lock Comanche, once again demonstrating her dominance at the front of the fleet in tough offshore conditions.

On overall (IRC) results, Min River was awarded the win following a successful protest against BNC – my::NET / LEON, a decision that ultimately reshaped the final standings after the fleet had finished.

The outcome reinforces what this edition delivered from the outset — a race defined by persistence, seamanship, and the fine margins that make the Sydney Hobart such a compelling offshore contest.

80th Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

The 80th edition of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has lived up to its reputation from the very first hours — tough, uncomfortable, and relentlessly demanding.

The fleet departed Sydney Harbour under grey, gloomy skies, a fitting backdrop for what has quickly turned into a true offshore test rather than a glamour run south.

Headwinds and Heavy Going Overnight

From the outset, competitors have faced headwinds all the way, setting the tone for a slow and physically demanding opening phase. Rather than fast reaching or downwind sprints, crews have been grinding into it, with the first night delivering uncomfortable, wet conditions across much of the fleet.

As is often the case in Hobart races defined by attrition, the conditions have already taken their toll. Seven yachts have been forced to retire, including LawConnect, which suffered minor breakages early in the race. While not catastrophic, the damage was enough to end their campaign — a reminder of how unforgiving this course can be when boats are pushed hard for long periods.

Leaders Emerge as the Fleet Pushes South

Despite the challenging conditions, the race has begun to take shape at the front.

Master Lock Comanche has taken the lead overnight, asserting its pace even in the heavy upwind conditions. Close behind sit LawConnect and last year’s overall winner, keeping the pressure firmly on at the head of the fleet.

On corrected time, the picture looks different again. Celestial V70 is currently leading overall, highlighting once more that the Sydney to Hobart is as much about consistency and strategy as outright speed.

A Long Way Still to Go

With over 300 nautical miles still to go, the race is far from decided. Headwinds, fatigue, and the ever-present Bass Strait variables mean anything can still happen — and usually does.

This year’s race is shaping up to be one for the purists: less spectacle, more seamanship. And that’s exactly how the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race has earned its legend.