Warwick team finishes runner-up in thrilling University Challenge final

The University of Warwick team reached the final of this year’s University Challenge, broadcast on BBC Two last night (Monday 12 May), where they were narrowly beaten by Christ’s College, Cambridge.

The match was closely contested, with Warwick finishing just five points behind in one of the tightest finals in recent years.

The team – Oscar Siddle (Mathematics), Ananya Govindarajan (Engineering), Thomas Hart (Mathematics), and Benjamin Watson (Philosophy, Politics and Economics) – delivered strong performances throughout the series and reached the final after a series of closely contested matches.

Reflecting on the final, Benjamin Watson said: “We're obviously crushed by the result but the trophy couldn't have gone to a nicer team and we're all very proud of how far we went in the competition. It was an incredible honour to represent Warwick and a great experience.”

Warwick has a strong record in University Challenge, having won the competition in 2007 and 2021.

Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of The University of Warwick, said: “We are incredibly proud of The University of Warwick team for their remarkable achievement in reaching the University Challenge final – a fitting accomplishment as we celebrate our 60th anniversary year.

“Well done to the team for their outstanding skill, composure, and teamwork throughout the competition. This achievement not only showcases their exceptional talent but also underscores our commitment to academic excellence and ambition. We are thrilled to celebrate with them and the entire Warwick community.”

Warwick’s University Challenge Journey

Warwick’s University Challenge team made a strong start to the series, securing impressive wins over the University of East Anglia (275–125), Oriel College, Oxford (215–110), and Queen’s University Belfast (215–95). However, the competition grew tougher in the quarterfinals, where they faced Christ’s College, Cambridge. Despite trailing by 150 points at one stage, Warwick mounted a determined late push, narrowing the final score to 155–205.

In their final quarterfinal match, Warwick bounced back with a commanding 220–125 victory over University College London, earning a place in the semi-final. A nail-biting finish saw them defeat Darwin College, Cambridge, in the last three minutes to secure their place in the final – a rematch against Christ’s College, Cambridge.

ENDS

For more information, please contact:

Stevie Connoll – Media & Communications Officer

stevie.connoll@warwick.ac.uk / +44 (0)7824 540791