FNB Varsity Cup 2025: A Season to Remember

What a season. What a finale. What a phenomenal celebration of South African rugby at its finest.

The 2025 FNB Varsity Cup final was nothing short of iconic. A clash rich in history and filled with anticipation, as FNB UCT Ikeys and FNB Maties met once again, 15 years after their last final encounter.

This time, it was in front of a sold-out Danie Craven Stadium, with 16,000 plus passionate fans creating an atmosphere worthy of the occasion. The Ikey Tigers, appearing in their third consecutive final, brought not only experience but relentless intensity.

With two decisive tries in the final 15 minutes, they pulled away from the home team and claimed a well-earned victory. Third time really was the charm. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS HERE.

It may have ended with a Cape derby, but let’s not forget where it all began.

This year’s tournament kicked off with Mascot Madness, our national launch that introduced South Africa to Enzo, the newest addition to the FNB Varsity Cup family. From the first match, Enzo became a fan favourite, energising stadiums and screens across the country. One of the most memorable moments of the season came when Enzo ‘lost’ his tail, sparking a community-wide search that captured the hearts of fans young and old.

Throughout the tournament, the #FansThatROCK showed up in full force. From the unwavering supporters in the stands to the cheerleaders, mascots, and events teams, the energy in every stadium played a key role in making this one of the most memorable FNB Varsity Cup seasons to date. 

FNB Varsity Cup 2025 was also a year of significant milestones. It recorded one of the highest stadium attendance numbers in the history of the tournament and achieved our most engaging digital season to date. For the first time, featured matches in the women's tournament were televised as part of the FNB Varsity Cup broadcast lineup. WATCH THE FINAL HERE.

One of the standout players of the tournament was Ntokozo Makhaza. The top points scorer this season and the highest point scorer in FNB Varsity Cup history. And for the second year running he was voted as the FNB Overall Player That Rocks collecting a cheque for R10 000 from FNB.

In recognition of his outstanding efforts, Hertz awarded him one of three Suzuki cars for a year. The other two going to the Varsity Shield Overall Player that Rocks and the Varsity Cup Women Player that Rocks in the final. We can’t wait to see what lies ahead for this rising star, and hopefully, that includes a place in the Green and Gold.

FNB Varsity Cup 2025 has truly been a landmark season, not only for the thrilling rugby on the field but also for the growth, innovation, and fan engagement around it. To every player, coach, university, sponsor, partner, and supporter — thank you. Your passion and dedication have made this tournament what it is today and have laid a powerful foundation for what comes next.

As Dr Rassie Erasmus said, “This is a sport that has brought us all together, and seeing the next generation of players coming through the FNB Varsity Cup gives me great hope for the future of South African rugby.”

Here’s to an unforgettable season and to the future of FNB Varsity Cup.