Varsity Cup 2026 all set for kick-off with unveiling of theme

Swart believes the theme reflects the tournament’s continued role in showcasing the next generation of South African rugby talent, with emerging stars eager to make their mark on the university rugby stage. 

She noted that a plethora of players and coaches first made their mark in the Varsity Cup before progressing to the professional ranks. 

“From our side, 2026 is obviously a massive year for the FNB Varsity Cup. We have new rules and a new theme," said Swart.

"Our theme this year is ‘Who is next?' We are just saying, we are wondering from our side who is going to be the next Springbok, who is going to be the next Springbok coach or presenter.

“All of these people actually started from the Varsity Cup and they have moved on to the high levels, so from our side we wanted to ask the question of who is next?"

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Swart also highlighted a new rule introduced for this year’s competition – the tackle-kick rule.

“It is one of our newest innovations that we brought in for the year. This rule is applicable to the FNB Varsity Cup and the FNB Varsity Shield," she explained. 

"So basically what happens is, once a team has scored a try, they now have the option to either kick their normal conversion as they would or they can actually attempt to tap the ball and then go for an additional try, which can give them five points extra.” 

She added that more than 62 players have come through the Varsity Cup system and have gone on to represent the Springboks. 

“We have quite a few players who have played Varsity Cup and then have moved on to professional setups including United rugby championship. 

"We have about 62 plus players that have played in the FNB Varsity Cup and made it through to the Springboks squad including people like Juan de Jongh. 

"Our most recent one was Zachary Pothen, who made it through last year just after winning the FNB Varsity Cup title with UCT Ikeys, so very exciting stuff hey," Swart concluded.