While every rowing club in the Netherlands focuses primarily on welcoming new novices who are learning to row in September, the more senior members train for the first race of the 2025–26 season. The Amstelbeker (translated as the Amstel Cup) is unique in that it is the only race in the Netherlands that uses a knockout system, similar to the Henley Royal Regatta. The boats are ranked by a time trial, after which they compete one-on-one. The relatively short distance of 750 metres, which still feels like an eternity for a rower, also makes it a very entertaining race. Let’s see which boats you should definitely keep an eye on!
London Rowing Club
The only foreign entry and winners of the event last year, London have returned this year to defend their title and fight for the Fortuna Cup. This year’s crew sees four returning rowers and a new cox. Half of the crew was part of last year’s Wargrave squad, which finished behind Leander on the Saturday of Henley. With some new faces this season, they’ll be hoping to build on their experience and reach a new level this weekend.
Willem III
Maybe the local favourites, Willem III row on the Amstel and have a strong history in this event. They have not forgotten the small margin by which they lost last year and will be out for revenge. Most of the crew has previously rowed at a high level and now train mostly for pleasure, but they should not be seen as a weak crew. Training since August, they’ve put together a strong side with the experience to deliver a solid result.
De Hoop
De Hoop have been working to build a new squad based around ex-student rowers who want to continue a competitive career. They started this project on the men’s side, which has already led to good results, and now they aim to create an equally capable women’s crew. They’re an up-and-coming team, so I’d class them as the underdogs in this matchup but definitely one to watch through the season.
Prediction
The final will likely come down to London and Willem III. Which way it goes is harder to say, but I think London have a slight edge in power and could pull ahead. In any case, it will be close, so both crews will try to make life as easy as possible in the opening rounds. With great views along the river, the Amstel will be alive tomorrow it’s well worth a trip to watch the action live!
