Matt Payne and Garth Tander emerged victorious in what turned out to be one of the most exhilarating races in the history of the Repco Bathurst 1000. Starting from the 18th position, the duo defied the odds to claim their dramatic win on October 12, 2025.
"It’s unbelievable. I’m lost for words," said Matt Payne, visibly elated after securing his first Bathurst victory. Meanwhile, Tander celebrated his impressive sixth Bathurst win, elevating his status as one of the sport's legends. The win also marked a notable achievement for the Grove Racing team, being their first at Bathurst.
The race unfolded with surprising twists and turns. Initially, it appeared that James Golding and David Russell had crossed the finish line first. However, a time penalty assessed to Golding subsequently dropped them to third place. This penalty stemmed from an aggressive maneuver to pass Cooper Murray while vying for the lead in the race's final stages, which complicated their day further.
"We were in a position to win, and it all unfolded in front of us," reflected Golding on the challenging turn of events. Although fortunate to finish fourth, Murray avoided disaster in a dramatic run to the end.
The conditions at Mount Panorama changed dramatically, with initial dry weather giving way to rain, impacting many contestants significantly. Top contenders suffered issues one after another, making it a race of survival.
According to Tander, "The conditions were tough, and you had to stay focused to bring the car home. We just kept pushing forward, taking every opportunity we could.” This resilience showcased the pair's ability to adapt amidst overwhelming odds.
Triple Eight’s challenge was also thwarted when drivers Will Brown and Broc Feeney were involved in crashes, though Feeney remarkably managed to recover to a solid sixth-place finish alongside Jamie Whincup.
Walkinshaw Andretti United also bore the brunt of misfortune during their last Bathurst outing with Ford. Chaz Mostert and Fabian Coulthard suffered early engine failure, while Ryan Wood and Jayden Ojeda led for a remarkable 45 laps only to be forced to retire late in the race due to a broken crank sensor.
Cam Waters similarly faced heartbreak when co-driver Mark Winterbottom was involved in a crash during the rain-soaked final stages. While they lost a lap during repairs, the team salvaged a 12th-place finish.
Ultimately, the 2025 Bathurst 1000 will be remembered for its twists, the perseverance of its winners, and the dramatic highs and lows experienced by many. As Payne noted, "You just never know what can happen in this race, and that’s what makes it so special.”
Looking ahead, Payne and Tander's victory not only enhances their individual legacies but also signifies a fresh start for Grove Racing as they prepare for the next season. Their triumph could inject new energy into the series, leaving fans eager for the upcoming challenges in the world of Supercars.
