The Dutch men’s eight, the renowned Holland Acht, has been named Sports Team of the Year 2025 at the NOC*NSF Sports Gala, following their historic world-title victory at the World Rowing Championships in Shanghai.

In a powerful and perfectly executed race, the crew — Eli Brouwer, Finn Florijn, Wibout Rustenburg, Jorn Salverda, Sander de Graaf, Pieter van Veen, Jan van der Bij, Mick Makker, and coxswain Jonna de Vries — defeated strong competition from Great Britain and the United States. Their win marked the first world championship title ever for the flagship boat of Dutch rowing, making the achievement one of the sport’s most memorable milestones.

The jury selected the Holland Acht over two other standout nominees: the Dutch women’s 3×3 basketball team, who captured European gold and claimed their first world title earlier this year, and the women’s track cycling team sprint squad, who outpaced the British riders to dominate on the velodrome.

For the Holland Acht, this award highlights not only their historic triumph but also the exceptional teamwork, discipline, and resilience that define their journey. Their world-class performance in Shanghai has set a new standard for Dutch rowing and continues to inspire athletes across the country.