The University of Pretoria defeated North-West University 31-3 in the rain-soaked Varsity Cup final on 13 April 2026, securing a record sixth title and becoming the most decorated team in the competition's history. Coach Dewey Swartbooi hailed his players' character after overcoming their sole season loss to the same opponents.
The University of Pretoria, known as Tuks, dominated North-West University Eagles in the Varsity Cup final on 13 April 2026. Despite muddy conditions, Tuks secured a 31-3 win, with Andile Myeni named player of the final for his long-range try.
This victory marks Tuks' sixth title, surpassing Stellenbosch University's five. Tuks coach Dewey Swartbooi said, “I’m immensely proud of the boys… the character of the boys is something to behold.” He noted their season dominance, losing only once to NWU, and always scoring four or more tries per game.
Swartbooi reflected on the team's resurgence after relegation to the Varsity Shield in 2023. “It was obviously a hell of a disappointment,” he said, adding they aimed to restore pride and avoid future relegation. Tuks won the Shield, reached semis in 2025, and now hold the top title.
NWU coach Burger van der Westhuizen called Varsity Cup “the pinnacle” of university rugby, like a World Cup for under-24 players. Standouts included Tuks' Jean Fourie with nine tries and NWU's Matthew Fortuin as Backline Player of the Season.
