Villanova University and the University of Notre Dame announced on April 17 that they will come together in Rome, Italy, in November 2026 for a series of events combining faith, athletics, and academics. The event will feature a men’s and women’s basketball doubleheader as well as programming focused on the institutions’ shared Catholic missions.
The gathering aims to highlight the connection between faith-based education and athletic achievement. Both universities plan to use this occasion to bring their communities together for cultural immersion, academic engagement, shared worship, and competition.
University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue said, “This extraordinary experience reflects the very best of Villanova’s Augustinian Catholic mission—uniting faith, learning and community in a global setting. From academic engagement and cultural immersion to shared worship and athletics, this journey offers a profound opportunity to grow in mind, body and spirit.”
Inspired by Pope Leo XIV—a Villanova alumnus who was recently elected—the student-athletes from both schools will open the 2026–27 NCAA basketball season with games on November 1. The men’s game is scheduled to air nationally on FOX at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time; the women’s game will follow at noon on FS1.
William B. Finneran Endowed Head Men’s Basketball Coach Kevin Willard said, “This is a special opportunity for our players and coaches to be part of a global event.” Head Women’s Basketball Coach Denise Dillon added that it is an opportunity “to showcase high level basketball while celebrating our University and its Augustinian mission.”
The schedule includes a welcome reception overlooking Rome, Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, an audience with Pope Leo XIV before the games, private tours of Vatican Museums, curated programs about sports and spirituality, as well as optional excursions around Italy.
On Location will provide official travel packages featuring premium seating options along with exclusive events for attendees from both universities.
