Klerksdorp Midweek, Potchefstroom - The countdown is on for South Africa’s most exciting and competitive student rugby tournaments! The country’s top universities are gearing up to deliver next-level rugby action as the best student players go head-to-head in front of passionate fans at packed stadiums nationwide. The excitement kicks off with the Varsity Shield competition on February 14, followed by the FNB Varsity Cup on February 17.
With the Springboks’ back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs still fresh in our minds, the spotlight now shifts to the next generation of potential stars. More than 50 Varsity Cup and Shield players have gone on to wear the green and gold, proving this platform is a critical stepping stone in South African rugby.
FNB Varsity Cup founder and CEO, Francois Pienaar, remains as enthusiastic as ever about the tournament’s impact:
“2025 Varsity Cup is going to the Next Level. We’re stepping up on all fronts, creating great moments and inspiring the future stars of South African rugby. This year, we celebrate the FNB Varsity Cup and Shield as the perfect springboard for talent, bridging university and professional rugby, while shining a brighter spotlight on the rapid growth of women’s rugby.
The tournaments have become synonymous with producing world-class talent, but it’s more than a rugby competition; it’s where student athletes grow, thrive, and dream big. I can’t wait to see what this season has in store!”
Get ready for next-level rugby, next-level talent, and next-level sportainment where champions are made, and the future of South African rugby is forged!”
This year brings some exciting updates:
Friday Night Lights: Most Varsity Shield matches will now take place on Fridays, creating a weekend buzz that fans can look forward to.
Mascot Mania: Team mascots are back, bringing vibrant energy to every game. Expect dance-offs, crowd interactions, and plenty of team spirit!
Women’s Rugby Growth: Following the success of last year’s FNB Varsity Cup Women’s competition, 2025 will see the top 6 women’s teams compete for glory with several matches being broadcast for the first time ever.
The Shield competition will also see the addition of FNB Sol Plaatjes who replaces FNB TUT after winning the promotion relegation play-off. The Kimberley-based unit is eager to show why they should be taken seriously as a potential title contender and at the helm will be head coach Johnathan Francke who brings a wealth of experience to the table.
With the best young talent on display, thrilling matches, and an electric atmosphere that only Varsity Rugby can offer, 2025 promises to be another unforgettable season of next level action.
