The countdown to Varsity Football 2026 is heating up and campuses across the country are getting ready to turn up the temperature with a series of exciting campus launches ahead of kick-off on 1 August.

More than just introducing the teams, the campus launches are where the #iyachesa spirit comes alive, bringing together players, students and supporters to celebrate university football and build excitement for another unforgettable season under the Friday Night Lights.

Fans can expect an action-packed atmosphere featuring player introductions, mascot appearances, music, competitions, interactive games and plenty of opportunities to show off their university pride before the tournament gets underway.

Every launch offers supporters the chance to meet the players who will represent their universities throughout the season, while giving teams the perfect send-off before they begin their quest for Varsity Football glory.

The excitement doesn't stop there. Throughout the campus launches, promoters will be looking for the supporters who bring the biggest energy. The most passionate fans can enter the #iyachesaFAN competition, with winners featured across Varsity Sports' social media platforms and rewarded with R1 000 cash prizes for showing what true university spirit looks like.

Supporters can also get involved by taking part in football challenges, dance-offs, interactive competitions and sharing their favourite campus launch moments on social media using #iyachesa. Every chant, celebration and post helps build the atmosphere that makes Varsity Football one of the country's most exciting university sporting events.

Each university brings its own unique identity to the competition. From passionate student supporters and vibrant cheer squads to colourful mascots and unforgettable campus traditions, every launch promises a celebration of football, community and university pride.

The campus launches mark the official beginning of the Varsity Football journey. Whether you're backing the defending champions, welcoming a returning team or supporting your university for the very first time, this is where the excitement begins.

Varsity Football campus launch dates:

UJ – 24 July, 11am to 2pm, APK student centre

DUT – 24 July, 12pm to 3pm, Riverside Campus (PMB)

Wits – 28 July, 1pm to 2pm, Amphitheatre at Wits

UL – 29 July, 1pm to 2pm, Thami Square, University of Limpopo

UWC – 31 July, 9am to 2pm, UWC Residences

Tuks – 31 July, 11am to 2pm, Piazza, Hatfield Campus

UFS – 5 August, 12pm to 2pm, Thakaneng Bridge

The women’s tournament kicks-off on 1 August and the men’s on the 7 August.

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE