Sport Other Sport BBC Need to know The Boat Race returns to TV screens this weekend but with one major change The legendary Boat Race returns this weekend(Image: PA)
All the information you need to watch the Boat Race: Date and Timing: The 2026 Boat Race is set to take place on Saturday, April 4. The Women’s Boat Race will get underway at 2:21pm, followed precisely one hour later by the Men’s Boat Race at 3:21pm. The Course Location: The race spans a celebrated 4.25-mile stretch of the River Thames in south-west London. The route starts at Putney and finishes at Mortlake, attracting huge crowds to the riverbanks throughout. Historical Significance: This year marks the 80th Women’s Boat Race and the 171st Men’s Boat Race. The tradition stretches back to 1829 for the men and 1927 for the women, making it one of the longest-standing sporting rivalries on the planet. Major Broadcaster Change: In a notable development for 2026, the race will no longer be shown on the BBC. Instead, viewers can catch the live coverage on Channel 4, which will broadcast the event from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. Fan Zones: Two dedicated fan zones will open at 11:00am, offering supporters food, drinks, and giant screens. These areas give spectators the chance to enjoy the atmosphere and follow the action clearly, even if they are not positioned right at the finish line. Hammersmith Viewing: The Hammersmith Furnivall Gardens fan zone sits right alongside the river for an excellent vantage point. It will feature a range of food options, from traditional burgers to Greek street food, for peckish spectators. Fulham Pier Hub: Fulham Pier will act as a central gathering point for supporters and alumni, with a dedicated area for Oxford University fans to pick up flags and badges. Cambridge University supporters are also expressly encouraged to join in the celebrations at this location. Race Odds: Cambridge’s Men’s team are the favourites to claim victory at odds of 1-5, with Oxford priced at 3-1. In the Women’s race, Oxford Women are 1-3 favourites to take the honours, while Cambridge are available at 15-8. Expected Attendance: In excess of 200,000 spectators are anticipated to line the banks of the Thames to watch the races in person. Given these considerable numbers, arriving early is strongly advised if you wish to secure a prime viewing position. Alternative Viewing: For those unable to attend the official fan zones, numerous local pubs along the riverbank will be hosting viewing parties. Equally, finding a quieter spot further along the 4.25-mile stretch of bank remains a popular choice for cheering on the competing crews. READ THE FULL STORY ON BOAT RACE PAST CHAOS: Boat Race chaos as race stopped almost immediately and Matthew Pinsent forced to intervene Get £250 to switch to Virgin Media’s sport packages
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