By Zim Sport Live Writer
Next-generation financial services platform Mukuru has returned as title sponsor of the St John’s Mukuru Derby Day Festival, with this year’s event set to be the biggest edition yet.
The 2026 festival, which runs from April 27 to May 2, also coincides with the 40th anniversary celebrations of St John’s College, making it a landmark occasion for one of Zimbabwe’s top schools.
This is the second consecutive year that Mukuru has partnered with St John’s for the festival, with additional support coming from Health International and Titan Law.
The Derby Day Festival has become one of the premier school sporting events in Zimbabwe, bringing together some of the country’s fiercest rivalries in rugby, football and hockey at one venue over the course of a week.
This year’s edition will feature 49 teams across the three sports, including 19 rugby schools, 14 football teams, and 16 hockey teams split equally between boys and girls schools.
The tournament is expected to attract around 15,000 spectators, with schools travelling from Harare, Matabeleland, Manicaland, Midlands and Mashonaland, while South African school St Alban’s College will also be part of the action.
Beyond the competition itself, the festival has become an important talent identification platform. Following the attendance of the Sharks Academy last year, several young players have already progressed into professional development pathways.
Doug Tait-Knight said Mukuru was proud to continue supporting the event during such a significant year for St John’s College.
“Returning as title sponsor during St John’s milestone 40th year is a proud moment for us. This festival is more than a sporting event; it’s a high-performance platform where the next generation of African talent is discovered.”
Chris Fourie, the Director of Sport at St John’s College, said Mukuru’s involvement had played a key role in the growth of the festival.
“Their support goes beyond sponsorship. It’s a genuine partnership that has helped us build this into a flagship event. Together, we are creating something truly special for our schools, our players and the wider community.”
Tickets for rugby VIP access are available from the St John’s College bursar’s office, while general admission tickets for rugby and hockey will be sold at the gate. Entry for football matches will be free throughout the festival.