Varsity Esports Split 2 Finalists Confirmed

South Africa’s top university esports competitors are locked in for two days of gaming action and entertainment for everyone 

After weeks of qualifying competitions between 18 universities and over 500 players across the country, the field has been narrowed down in the Varsity Esports Split 2 to just four representatives in each title. UP-Tuks will play host to the ultimate show-down on 2 and 3 October and gamers are in for a treat. 

In EA SPORTS FC, the University of the Free State will be represented by Kani18, Stellenbosch University by THIEFUSER, Tshwane University of Technology by mAnton17, while Sue-Da-Knees will compete on home ground for the University of Pretoria.

The Rocket League field will see Tuks Reset representing the University of Pretoria, SuperNova flying the flag for Central University of Technology, Wits Rocket League representing the University of the Witwatersrand, and DraMaties competing for Stellenbosch University.

VALORANT will feature two Emeris teams, Dominion and Eclipse, alongside Maties Valorant from Stellenbosch University and the UJ Orange Army from the University of Johannesburg.

You can find the full list of qualified players here.

More Than Just the Main Stage

The Varsity Esports Split 2 Finals promises to be an event not to be missed and gaming fans can expect far more than just the action on stage. The Split 2 Finals will bring together competitive university gaming, sponsor activations, challenges, giveaways, food and entertainment for the full duration of the event.

Koodoo, on behalf of FNB, will give spectators the opportunity to jump into some of their favourite games, with gaming stations featuring titles including Mortal Kombat, EA SPORTS FC and Tekken 8.

Red Bull will bring its Events Vehicle to the Split 2 Finals, adding music and atmosphere throughout the day while keeping competitors and spectators refreshed with Red Bull.

Fans looking to refuel will find Roman's Pizza conveniently located at the event, serving pizza throughout the day. Those looking for an extra challenge can also put themselves to the test in the Roman's Pizza Fastest Eater competition.

With esports events often running for several hours, keeping devices powered throughout the day can be a challenge. NIVEA MEN will tackle that with its Recharge Zone, giving players and spectators a comfortable space to relax, watch the action and charge their devices.

“At NIVEA MEN, we understand that esports is all about performance, endurance, and staying connected,” says Nokuthula Bengu, Marketing Manager Nivea Body and Nivea Men. “That’s why we’ve created the NIVEA MEN Recharge Zone, a dedicated space where players and fans can power up their devices, take a moment to recharge, and get ready for the next match. Through this activation, NIVEA MEN is enhancing the Varsity Esports experience while supporting the growth of South Africa’s next generation of gaming talent.”

Citroën will bring the C3 Max into the gaming experience through a dedicated sim racing activation. Guests will be able to compete for the fastest lap of the day, with Citroën merchandise up for grabs for those who can climb the leaderboard.

“Gaming is a big part of how young people connect, compete and have fun, and that makes Varsity Esports a great fit for Citroën,” says Mmathapelo Khumalo, Brand Head of Citroën at Stellantis South Africa. “As a brand, we’ve always believed in keeping things simple, being a little daring and making experiences accessible to everyone. The C3 Max sim racing challenge brings that spirit to life in a fun way, and we’re looking forward to seeing who sets the fastest lap.”

Varsity Esports will also host dedicated PlayStation gaming stations, where spectators can get involved in the action and compete for exclusive Varsity Esports merchandise.

The competition will not be limited to the qualified esports players either. A special show match will see a member of the crowd take on a Varsity Sports athlete, bringing traditional university sport and esports together in a unique head-to-head challenge.

Twelve Finalists. Three Titles. One Split 2 Stage.

At the centre of the event remains the competition itself. Twelve of the strongest players and teams from the Split 2 season will arrive in Pretoria representing their universities, their teammates and their campuses.

With university rivalries playing out across EA SPORTS FC, Rocket League and VALORANT, every finalist will have the opportunity to make their mark when the action moves from online competition to the live stage.

For spectators, the Split 2 Finals offer the chance to support their university, experience the tournament atmosphere first-hand, take part in activations and challenges, win prizes and enjoy a full day of gaming entertainment.

Expect good food, big crowd energy and even better esports action.

Entrance to the Varsity Esports Split 2 Finals is free, but a ticket is required for entry.

Fans can secure their free ticket here.

Next Gen. Next Level.