The St John’s Mukuru Derby Day Sports Festival is set to return, with financial services giant Mukuru once again backing the event.
The festival, which will feature rugby, soccer, and hockey for both boys and girls, will run from 27 April to 2 May.
This marks the second year Mukuru has come on board as sponsor, with the company extending its partnership for another three years.
The 2026 edition will also be the fifth year of the derby festival’s existence.
Zimbuzz sport caught up with St John’s College sports director Chris Fourie a month ahead of the festival to get an update on preparations.
“It’s not easy to put together such a festival, but thanks to the team we have at St John’s, everyone knows their role. That helps us create something special and bring the vision to life. It’s now our fifth year doing this, so we have a solid framework in place,” said Fourie.
He also highlighted what defines success for the festival.
“The measure of success is the kids on the field. As long as they are smiling, having fun, and enjoying themselves, that’s what matters. The community also plays a big role by coming out in numbers to support and be entertained. Sport plays a role in bringing people together.”
Rugby remains one of the main attractions of the festival, with 19 schools set to participate. This year will also include an international presence, as St Alban’s College from Pretoria, South Africa, returns to the festival.
St Alban’s will face St George’s College on Tuesday, before taking on traditional rugby powerhouse Peterhouse on Thursday.
They will wrap up their tour against hosts St John’s College, Harare in the final match of the festival on Saturday, 2 May.
Milton High School and Lord Brighton College will also return after making their debut at the 2025 edition.
In the soccer section, 14 schools are expected to participate. Perennial giants Prince Edward School and Churchill School will renew their traditional rivalry, while Watershed College, Kyle College, and Gateway High School are also set to feature.
On the hockey front, eight girls’ teams and eight boys’ teams will take part. One of the standout fixtures will see Chisipite Senior School face Arundel School under floodlights on Friday, 1 May.
The clash is known for its intensity and is expected to be another highlight of the festival.
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