Medics Varsity 2026 has been cancelled, the Students’ Union has announced.
The sports fixture between medic sport teams from Cardiff and Bristol Universities had been planned for the 21st November.
In a statement Margherita Puccinelli VP Sports and Head of Cardiff’s Atheletic Union said “Unfortunately, despite arrangements, Bristol withdrew from the event.
"We understand the disappointment that may be felt by our medical sports teams in light of this news.”
A source in the Students’ Union said that the event had been cancelled due to a dispute over a move by Cardiff to charge for the event, the first time this has happened.
They said that during the summer Cardiff’s Atheletics Union had approached Bristol about charging spectators for tickets. Initially a price for tickets was agreed, however Bristol later withdrew their support.
It is understood that teams from Cardiff had supported a charge, which would later land at the £10 mark, to make up for missing funds.
A meeting was held on Monday, aiming to reach a final agreement. However the two sides were unable to agree on pricing, and a decision was made to cancel the event.
“We are committed to finding new opportunities for these teams and are hopeful we can provide an alternative event for our students in the future,
“We want to thank our teams for their commitment towards the event and recognise the work that has been done by the AU.”
She emphaised the hard work by staff in the Student’s Union in trying to keep the event afloat, despite the cancellation adding that “Refunds will be issued to all students who purchased a ticket as soon as possible.”
Tom Holland, President of the Medics Football team said he was “really disappointed” by the decision to cancel.
Efforts are now being made to provide an alternative fixture for medics teams, for whom the event was the highlight of the year.
