Kiwi’s Bathurst win earns recognition
Matthew Payne’s victory in the rain-sodden 2025 Bathurst 1000 has been named a finalist for New Zealand’s Favourite Sporting Moment at this year’s Halberg Awards.
The Kiwi driver’s maiden Bathurst win alongside Garth Tander at Mount Panorama stood out partly because of the torrential conditions of the race that reduced visibility and grip.
His success has been listed as one of 12 finalists for the Halberg honour, which will be decided by public vote.
Starting 18th on the grid, Payne had to overcome a number of potential race-ending scenarios throughout a near-seven-hour Bathurst 1000 battle.
Deborah Day, MotorSport New Zealand president, says the nomination reflects the significance of the achievement and the pride it generated across the country.
“Matthew Payne’s Bathurst 1000 victory was one of those rare sporting moments that stopped the nation,” she adds.
“To win at Mount Panorama in such extreme conditions requires exceptional talent, courage, and strength.
“This recognition at the Halberg Awards highlights not only Matthew’s achievement, but the depth of motorsport excellence New Zealand continues to produce.”
Public voting, which is now open at https://halberg.co.nz/halberg-awards/vote/, closes at 8.30pm on February 16. The winner will be announced shortly after at the Halberg Awards, broadcast live on Sky Sport and free-to-air on Sky Open.
