BBC pundit apologises after breaking down in tears following Cambridge Boat Race win over Oxford

WATCH NOW: Sports round-up as Cambridge beat Oxford in Boat Race

Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 13/04/2025

- 16:38

Sebastian Benzecry was overcome with emotion following Sunday's race

Former Cambridge champion Sebastian Benzecry broke down in tears during BBC's coverage of the iconic Boat Race.

The 26-year-old pundit couldn't contain his emotion after watching Cambridge power to victory over Oxford.


Benzecry, who previously served as President of Cambridge University Boat Club, was visibly moved as he wiped away tears live on camera.

Host Clare Balding later remarked: "If anyone at home isn't crying now, you're made of steel."

BBC Boat Race

Former Cambridge champion Sebastian Benzecry broke down in tears during BBC's coverage of the iconic Boat Race

BBC

"Sorry, that was just amazing to see," Benzecry said as he struggled to compose himself.

"This race, sorry. This race is so, so meaningful."

The emotional pundit continued: "To see [cox] Ollie Boyne win here today is just the most amazing thing.

"It's been a hard season for these guys, it's been a hard season for Cambridge.

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"But that performance was just the most incredible row I've seen in a Boat Race."

Cambridge started strongly in the race, which had been delayed due to debris spotted in the Thames.

As they passed Fulham's Craven Cottage, the Light Blues began to stretch away from their Oxford rivals.

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The dominant performance resulted in an estimated 17-second margin of victory.

The commanding win showcased Cambridge's superiority on the water despite what Benzecry described as a "hard season".

The race's outcome was decisive, with Cambridge pulling ahead early and maintaining their advantage throughout the course.

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Benzecry is a three-time champion of the prestigious race, bringing expert insight to the BBC's coverage.

He is currently studying for a PhD in Film and Screen Studies at Jesus College.

His successor as president, Luca Ferraro, was equally emotional after the victory.

"It's an indescribable feeling crossing the line ahead after so many months of hard work," Ferraro said.

Cambridge Oxford Boat Race

Cambridge have trounced rivals Oxford to win the 2025 Boat Race after the big event in London was delayed

GETTY

The new president added: "I asked a lot of the guys and they really delivered."

The victory extends Cambridge's overall head-to-head lead over Oxford to 88-81 in the historic rivalry.

Earlier in the day, Cambridge women had sealed their eighth consecutive victory over Oxford.