FNB Varsity Cup Women enters bold new chapter in 2026

With the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield campaigns already in full swing, the spotlight is once again set to shine on the women’s game with the fourth edition of the FNB Varsity Cup Women’s tournament kicking off on Friday, 6 March.

What began as a bold step forward for women’s university rugby in South Africa has rapidly grown into a flagship competition on the calendar, elevating the standard and competitiveness of the women’s game across the country.

The 2026 tournament marks an important evolution in structure as it moves away from the previous cross-pool format to a full round-robin competition for the first time.

The six participating teams are FNB Maties, FNB Tuks, FNB UFH, FNB UJ, FNB UWC and FNB UKZN who will face one another across five weeks of group-stage action, ensuring every side is tested against the full field before the semi-finals and final determine the champion.

The top teams will then advance to the semi-finals, culminating in a final on 17 April that promises to once again showcase the very best of women’s university rugby.

Defending champions FNB Maties return after reclaiming the title last season. Having originally lifted the trophy in 2023, Maties secured their second crown with a composed 21–10 victory over FNB Tuks Women in the 2025 final. The triumph marked a significant milestone for head coach Aneesah Adams in her debut season at the helm.

“Reaching the finals as a coach in my first year at Maties Rugby was an incredible feeling, a mix of pride, excitement and validation of all the hard work put in by the team over the preseason,” said Adams.

“It showed that the preparation, strategy and commitment pays off.”

With increased visibility, growing support and a refined competition format, the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup Women’s tournament continues to push boundaries and set new benchmarks.

The stage is set for another season of high-intensity clashes, emerging stars and the rugby that rocks and you see all the fixtures HERE.