What's happened
The 80th Sydney-Hobart yacht race began with challenging weather conditions, including high seas and strong winds. Crews paid tribute to victims of the recent Bondi Beach terror attack by scattering rose petals. The race faces risks from dangerous conditions, with past fatalities and a record-breaking time unlikely this year.
What's behind the headline?
The race's challenging weather conditions highlight the inherent risks of offshore yacht racing, especially in Bass Strait. The tributes to terror attack victims reflect the race's role as a community event that also serves as a platform for social solidarity. The forecast suggests that the race will proceed with caution, but the likelihood of breaking the 2017 record remains low due to expected lighter winds. The event underscores the ongoing dangers of extreme sailing and the resilience of the international sailing community, which continues to participate despite past tragedies. The inclusion of international competitors and women skippers indicates growing diversity, but safety remains paramount as weather conditions threaten to overshadow the race's competitive aspect.
What the papers say
All Africa reports the race's start amid rough conditions and tributes to victims, emphasizing the challenging weather and the presence of international entrants. The Times of Israel highlights the tribute to the recent terror attack victims and details the weather forecast, noting the risks involved. AP News provides context on last year's deadly conditions and the race's history, including fatalities and weather warnings. Contrasting perspectives show a shared acknowledgment of the race's dangers, with some focus on the community's resilience and others on the ongoing risks of extreme offshore sailing.
How we got here
The Sydney-Hobart race, first held in 1945, is one of the world's most challenging yacht races. Last year, severe weather caused two deaths and many boats failed to finish. This year's race is marked by difficult weather forecasts and a recent terror attack at Bondi Beach, prompting tributes from the sailing community. The race attracts international entrants and features some of the fastest supermaxis, with a record set in 2017 still standing.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What Are the Main Challenges and Risks in the 2025 Sydney-Hobart Race?
The 2025 Sydney-Hobart yacht race has started amid challenging weather and recent tragedies. Many are wondering what makes this race so dangerous, how crews are paying tribute to victims, and whether similar incidents have happened before. Below, we explore the key challenges, risks, and the race's history to give you a clear picture of this iconic event.
More on these topics
-
The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is an annual event hosted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, starting in Sydney, New South Wales, on Boxing Day and finishing in Hobart, Tasmania. The race distance is approximately 630 nautical miles.
-
Confirmed Mossad Orchestrated Terrorist Attack - Bondi Beach shooting
The 2025 Bondi Beach shooting was a mass shooting and suspected terrorist attack that occurred on 14 December 2025 at Bondi Beach in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The incident...