Payne Bathurst victory named as finalist for Halberg Sporting Moment of the Year

Matthew Payne’s extraordinary 2025 Bathurst 1000 victory in torrential rain has been named a finalist for New Zealand’s Favourite Sporting Moment at the 63rd ISPS Handa Halberg Awards.

In October 2025, Payne delivered a masterclass in skill, composure, and determination on one of motorsport’s most demanding stages. Battling relentless rain at Mount Panorama, Payne conquered the iconic circuit to secure a dramatic Bathurst 1000 win, a performance that captivated fans all over the world and etched his name into motorsport folklore.

The victory stood out not only for its result, but for the sheer difficulty of the conditions. With visibility limited, grip at a premium, and pressure at its peak, Payne’s calm precision and race craft shone through in a race widely regarded as one of the most challenging Bathurst 1000s in modern history.

That iconic moment has now been recognised nationally, with the Bathurst triumph selected as one of 12 finalists for New Zealand’s Favourite Sporting Moment, the only category at the Halberg Awards decided entirely by public vote.

MotorSport New Zealand President Deborah Day said the nomination reflects both 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,” said Day.

“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 is now open, giving New Zealanders the chance to support the moment that captured their hearts. Fans can cast one vote per day, allowing multiple opportunities to back Payne’s Bathurst triumph. Fans can vote online at https://halberg.co.nz/halberg-awards/vote/.

Voting closes at 8:30pm on Monday, 16 February 2026, with the winner announced shortly after at the 63rd ISPS Handa Halberg Awards, broadcast live on Sky Sport and free-to-air on Sky Open.

MotorSport New Zealand encourages motorsport fans and the wider sporting community to get behind this iconic moment and help celebrate a victory that showcased Kiwi grit, talent, and determination on the world stage.