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.

UFS are the Varsity Football 2025 champions after edging out TUT 5-4 on penalties on Thursday evening. The thrilling final at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein ended in a goalless draw after the regulation 90 minutes and thus forced the champions to be decided by a shootout. Remarkably, the final went to a penalty shootout for the third year in a row. But for UFS, this victory was historic – the first time they’ve lifted the trophy and been able to call themselves champions. The first half in the City of Roses was played at a frenetic pace, with both teams eager to make an early statement and pile on the pressure. The hosts, appearing in just their second-ever final, had the first real chance when in-form Jermone Jansen’s effort flew narrowly wide. It was end-to-end football as both sides searched for the breakthrough. But the 25th minute proved pivotal when inspirational UFS captain Iviwe Dyabuza and TUT’s star player Lucky Raphala collided heavily in midfield. The nasty clash forced both inspirational figures off for the rest of the match. With neither side able to find the opener, the teams went into the break locked at 0-0. In the second half, UFS launched wave after wave of attack, but the Red Army’s defence stood firm. Despite their dominance, the Kovsies simply couldn’t find a way through, and the match remained deadlocked – sending the final to penalties. The defining moment of the shootout came with TUT’s third spot-kick, when Lehlomo Tolo blasted his attempt over the crossbar. UFS kept their composure, though there was a moment of confusion when the crowd celebrated too early, mistakenly thinking Kediwe Ncenya had missed his effort. In the end, it was substitute Theko Phinithi – who had replaced the injured Dyabuza – who slotted home the decisive penalty to seal a famous 5-4 victory for the home side.   Penalty scorers:   UFS: Jose Mondi, Omphemetse Athibeng, Jerome Jansen, Ben Kraai, Theko Phinithi   TUT: Alan Moja, Surprise Khoza, Katlego Motlhale, Kediwe Ncenya. FNB Player of the Match: Surprise Xhosa (TUT) Suzuki Golden Boot winner: Keletso Sekhwela (UJ) Cashbuild Golden Glove: Ethan Mokwena (NWU) FNB Player of the Tournament: Aphelele Sibisi (NWU)   TEAMS:   UFS: Lethokuhle Makhaya, Ben Kraai, Philani Zondi, Xolani Mqwathi, Iviwe Dyabuza (captain), Tshepo Ndlovu, Jarome Jansen, Jose Mondi, Omphemetse Athibeng, Kagiso Semenya, Kagisho Lekholoa, Adolph Radingoana. TUT: Luyanda Mandindi, Lehlomo Tolo, Kediwe Ncenya, Surprise Khoza, Alan Moja (captain), Sphesihle Mazibuko, Katlego Motlhale, Menzukuthula Ntshangase, Lucky Raphala, Lindokuhle Nyandeni, Precious Mohale.

UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. The 2025 Varsity Football season has been nothing short of dramatic with last-minute winners and top quality diski that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Now after weeks of intensity all eyes turn to the final where UFS and TUT will battle it out on Thursday, 2 October at Shimla Park in Bloemfontein where a new champion will be crowned. But before we discover who lifts the trophy, it’s time to celebrate the stars who have stood out across the competition. Fans now have the chance to vote for the FNB Player of the Tournament 2025 with the winner taking home a big cash prize from FNB and driving away in a Hertz-sponsored car for a year.  How the nominees were chosen Each of the eight head coaches across the competition nominated three players who impressed them the most. Coaches were not allowed to put forward players from their own squads. Nominations were weighted: 1st = 3 points, 2nd = 2 points, 3rd = 1 point. After tallying the totals, the three players with the highest scores made the final shortlist. Here are the nominees for 2025 as chosen by the coaches: UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. Now it’s over to the public. Your votes will decide who earns the title of Varsity Football’s top performer for 2025. The public can cast their votes until Wednesday, 1 October at 9am. The winner will be the player with the most votes at the deadline and will be announced after the final on Thursday 29 October. Vote for your winner below. UPDATE: Voting for the FNB Player of the Tournament has closed as of 9am on 1 October. Winner will be announced after the final on Thursday 2 October. Omphemetse Athibeng (UFS): A stalwart of the Kovsies side Omphemetse is definitely a player to keep an eye on. An unassuming figure on the field until he touches the ball and his talent becomes apparent. He has speed, he has skill, power, and the finesse of a quality player. His cracking goal was the difference against DUT and he was rightly named as the FNB Player of the Match.    Aphelele Sibisi (NWU): The Eagles captain had a brilliant season and picked up several FNB Player of the Match award. As a leader, Sibisi is known not only for his defensive skills but also for lifting the team’s morale. His teammates often rely on his drive to keep them motivated during tough phases of a match. “I have a personal need to show how far I can go, that starts with giving everything for this team.” Jarome Jansen (UFS): The UFS star has played an instrumental role in helping the Kovsies securing their first ever Varsity Football final. His skill is undeniable and the Bachelor of Administration student has been playing football since childhood, excelling in attacking roles. Inspired by Themba Zwane’s humility, he dreams of turning professional while balancing his studies. The final takes place on Thursday the 2 October.

Football Men Football Women Netball SPORTS Tickets Teams Fan Zone INFO Football Men Football Women Netball FIXTURES & LOGS Videos Photos News News MEDIA About Sponsors History ABOUT © 2023 Varsity Cup. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions | Sponsors and Preferred Suppliers Varsity Sports Sponsors FNB FNB is a proud sponsor of Varsity Football Men's and Women's tournaments, as well as Varsity Netball. Suzuki Suzuki is a proud sponsor of Varsity Football Men's and Women's tournaments, as well as Varsity Netball. SportPesa SportPesa is a proud sponsor and the official Online Betting Partner of the Varsity Football Men's and Women's tournaments. SuperSport SuperSport is the official broadcast partner of the Varsity Sports tournaments. Red Bull Red Bull is the Official Energy Drink of Varsity Sports. Lift Lift is the official airline for Varsity Sports Southern Sun Southern Sun is the preferred accommodation partner for Varsity Sports. Gilbert Gilbert is the preferred ball supplier for Varsity Netball. aQuellé aQuellé is the Preferred Hydration partner to the Varsity Sports family. Mitre Mitre is the official ball supplier for Varsity Football. Cashbuild Cashbuild is a proud sponsor of Varsity Football Men's and Women's tournaments. Varsity Sports is grateful for the support of our sponsors, who make a vital contribution towards changing the lives of young people in South Africa through sporting excellence, academic opportunities, and social development. We are always on the lookout for commercial partners who have a strong connection with sport and are keen to land their brand at the tertiary level. If you would like further information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact us on +27 (0)11 486 0787 or info@asem.tv. Sponsorship Opportunities Preferred Suppliers BACK Sponsors VARSITY SPORTS

BACK Round 7 HIGHLIGHTS: UFS vs TUT - 18 Sept 2025 23 April 2022 LATEST VIDEOS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL Varsity Football Final HIGHLIGHTS: UFS vs TUT - 2 October 2025 03 Oct 2025 Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: NWU vs UFS - 25 Sept 2025 26 Sept 2025 Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: UJ vs TUT - 25 Sept 2025 26 Sept 2025 Football Men Football Women Netball SPORTS Tickets Teams Fan Zone INFO Football Men Football Women Netball FIXTURES & LOGS Videos Photos News News MEDIA About Sponsors History ABOUT © 2023 Varsity Cup. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions |

BACK Varsity Netball semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: NWU vs UJ - 22 Sept 23 April 2022 LATEST VIDEOS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL Varsity Football Final HIGHLIGHTS: UFS vs TUT - 2 October 2025 03 Oct 2025 Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: NWU vs UFS - 25 Sept 2025 26 Sept 2025 Semi-final HIGHLIGHTS: UJ vs TUT - 25 Sept 2025 26 Sept 2025 Football Men Football Women Netball SPORTS Tickets Teams Fan Zone INFO Football Men Football Women Netball FIXTURES & LOGS Videos Photos News News MEDIA About Sponsors History ABOUT © 2023 Varsity Cup. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions |