Varsity Esports returns for Year Two, fuelling the next generation of competitive gamers

Varsity Esports is back for its second year, doubling down on its mission to build a sustainable, grassroots esports ecosystem for South African students, and to create a clear pathway for those who want to take gaming seriously as a career.

After a successful inaugural season, Varsity Esports 2026 launches with renewed momentum, expanded campus activations, and a major milestone. Split 1 Finals will be hosted on campus at Stellenbosch University from Saturday 16 May until Sunday 17 May, bringing competitive esports directly into the heart of student life.

The league continues to focus on accessibility and enjoyment at grassroots level, while also providing structure, exposure, and progression opportunities for students aiming to compete professionally or enter the broader gaming and esports industry.

Backed by leading brands

Varsity Esports 2026 is proudly supported by a strong mix of returning and new sponsors:

FNB (returning sponsor)

Citroën (new sponsor)

Nivea Men (new sponsor)

Red Bull (returning sponsor)

Their involvement underscores growing confidence in varsity esports as a credible development pipeline for young talent and a meaningful engagement platform for brands.

Game titles for Split 1

Students will compete across three major titles:

·       Valorant

·       Rocket League

·       EA Sports FC 26

Key dates Split 1

·       Announcement: 16 February

·       Registrations: 16 – 27 February

·       Online Group Stages: 9 March – 30 April

·       Split 1 Finals: 16 – 17 May (Stellenbosch University)

Building more than a tournament

Now in its second year, Varsity Esports is focused on scale and depth; expanding campus-level engagement, strengthening university esports structures, and ensuring students can participate whether they’re playing for fun or pursuing a long-term competitive path.

Barry Louzada, Managing Director at Mettlestate, says:

“Varsity Esports was never about parachuting in a flashy tournament. It’s about building something that students can belong to. Year one proved there’s real appetite and real talent on campus. Year two is about going deeper, more universities, more on-campus presence, and clearer pathways for players who want to take this seriously. If we want a future-proof esports industry, this is where it starts.”

Marnus van Huyssteen, Head of Division at ASEM, emphasized that the momentum behind university esports has never been stronger, setting the stage for the exciting announcement:

“Building on the incredible success of the 2025 Varsity Esports season, we are thrilled to welcome new sponsors Nivea and Citroën in 2026 as we continue to grow this exciting platform. Varsity Esports is more than a competition - It’s about creating opportunities for young student gamers to showcase their talent, while further developing esport in South Africa. As part of the Varsity Sports platform, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of players and ensuring that everything we do remains centered on them. Esport is growing in popularity in South Africa, and we’re excited to play a part in the development of the sport.”

FNB says its investment in varsity level gaming is part of a broader effort to nurture early passion and turning it into meaningful future opportunities for young people.

“We know that big things often start small, and Varsity Esports is a great example of how passion at grassroots level can grow into real opportunity. We’re excited to keep backing students as they build skills, confidence and future careers in a rapidly evolving space. This is how we help the next generation to thrive, by showing up in places and passions that matter most to them,” says FNB Sponsorship Lead Brad Guymer.

Introducing the partnership, Mmathapelo Khumalo, Citroën Brand Head, emphasized the shared vision behind supporting the tournament:

“Varsity Esports continues to grow as a platform that celebrates innovation, creativity and the ambition of students across South Africa. This spirit of pushing boundaries aligns perfectly with Citroën’s vision of mobility that is For Everyone, Like No One. As the tournament evolves, we’re proud to support a new generation who are redefining how they connect, compete and express themselves, boldly, confidently and in their own distinctive way”.

With that being said, the path ahead for student esports has never been more promising.

How to get involved

·       Visit varsityesports.co.za to register.

·       Follow Varsity Esports on Instagram.

·       Speak to your university’s esports manager.