The 2025 Bathurst 1000 showcased a dramatic race at Mount Panorama, with Matt Payne and his co-driver Garth Tander ultimately claiming victory amidst challenging weather conditions. Payne, driving the #100 Penrite Racing Ford Mustang GT, faced significant obstacles throughout the race, but ultimately triumphed, marking Ford's first win at this prestigious event since 2019.
Sophie Wisely, in her LIVE race coverage, noted how the rain would play a crucial role in the outcome. "What a race it was!" she stated, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the track and the drivers' strategies. The duo had to navigate through a series of safety car periods and tricky wet conditions, proving their mettle as they secured the top spot.
At the end of 161 laps, the final standings revealed an unexpected twist. James Golding crossed the line first with his partner David Russell in the #31 PremiAir Chevrolet, followed by David Reynolds and Lee Holdsworth in second place. However, it was Payne and Tander who clinched the victory after Golding was handed a five-second penalty.
Reflecting on their performance, Tander praised Payne's composure during the tense final laps. "Think about the pressure those last, 40, 50 laps. And you knew there was going to be plenty happening," he remarked. Tander continued, "The way he kept his calm and even managed that last lap when Golding was mucking around with his five-second penalty...that was a seriously impressive drive."
Matt Payne expressed his exhilaration post-race, remarking, "It's absolutely insane; I was just on the wet when I got back in the car. It felt like forever, we kept getting safety cars, and it kept stalling our race." He also reflected on the nail-biting conclusion, stating, "Just managed to get through. Sort of felt like I ran out of tyres a bit at the end but win's a win."
This victory marked a significant moment not only for Payne but for Ford, who celebrated their return to the top of the podium at Bathurst after a lengthy hiatus. The last Ford win at The Mountain was in 2019, which added to the jubilation of this year’s team. "We made up sixteen spots to take the victory," Payne proudly noted, highlighting their impressive comeback.
As the race reached its climax, tensions ran high. Insights from commentator Mark Skaife captured the essence of the moment—"It's anyone's game right now," he declared, underlining the unpredictable nature of the fierce competition. Golding’s final push, combined with the penalty looming over him, created a suspenseful atmosphere at the iconic circuit.
This Bathurst 1000 was more than just a race; it was a testament to the strength and perseverance of the drivers involved. While Payne and Tander celebrated their win, the competition remained fierce with potential for future races, as seen with podium finishers Reynolds and Holdsworth, along with impressive performances from emerging talents like Erebus rookie Cooper Murray, who finished fourth.
The 2025 Bathurst 1000 will be remembered not only for the thrilling competition but also as a pivotal moment for both drivers and manufacturers as they prepare to take on future challenges in the Supercars Championship.