Isabella Capital Management announced as Headline Sponsor for the 2026 The Varsity Matches.
- Ian Kench
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Isabella Capital Management announced as Headline Sponsor for the 2026 The Varsity Matches.
The historic rugby Varsity Matches between Oxford and Cambridge Universities, set to take place at StoneX Stadium on Saturday 28th February, epitomise the sporting rivalry between the two universities which has raged for more than a century. After sponsoring the 2025 Matches in the fund's inaugural year, Isabella Capital is stepping up into the title sponsor role, increasing their support for the next generation of rugby talent.
Founded in 2024 by two Oxbridge alumni with a deep passion for rugby, Isabella is a global credit investment firm that has enjoyed a highly successful launch and was shortlisted for New Hedge Fund of the Year 2025 at the EuroHedge Awards.
This sponsorship reflects Isabella Capital's desire to give back to the environment that helped launch it, while supporting this historic fixture as it continues to grow in the modern era. The combination of heritage and innovation central to the iconic Varsity Matches mirrors Isabella Capital's investment ethos, with CIO and Founder, Jonny Thompson , recognised amongst the top 50 Rising Stars Hedge Fund Managers by The Hedge Fund Journal last year.
The 2026 Varsity Matches will be played at StoneX Stadium in North London, a state-of-the-art venue that serves as the home of Premiership side, Saracens. The stadium will provide a fitting backdrop for two matches steeped in tradition, where Oxford and Cambridge Universities will collide in a fierce rugby battle for the title of champion of the 144th Men's and 39th Women's Varsity Matches.
Jessica Tayenjam , Commercial Director for the Varsity Match Company, was delighted to confirm the partnership with Isabella Capital:
"Isabella Capital’s support of the Varsity Matches shows Oxbridge rugby’s continued value to growing businesses who share our values and commitment to excellence, as well as the strength of our alumni community.”
Jonny Thompson, CIO and Founder of Isabella, adds:
"It is a privilege for Isabella to sponsor one of the most historic fixtures in world rugby. The Varsity Matches represent tradition, excellence and rivalry at its very best, and we hope both sides enjoy a memorable occasion on and off the pitch.”
