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The University of Ottawa Gee-Gees are the victors in this year’s Panda Game, beating the Carleton Ravens 35 to 32.
More than 24,000 tickets were sold for the annual football matchup between Ottawa’s two universities, according to Carleton University.
Kanata-born Gee-Gees wide receiver Devaughn Blackwood scored three touchdowns in the game.
A recent transfer from St. Francis Xavier University, Blackwood said it was special to play in front of so many people in his hometown.
“Seeing my family, seeing my friends, people that have never seen me play before, it’s a good feeling,” he said.
University of Ottawa Gee-Gees fans cheer on at TD Place for the annual Panda Game on October 4, 2026. (Emma Weller/CBC)
After the match, Gee-Gees head coach Marcel Bellefeuille said he was proud of his team’s perseverance.
“For them to be able to pull it out in the end and and now be able to celebrate with each other, I’m really happy with that for them,” he said.
Despite the loss, Ravens quarterback Elijah Barnes said he was awestruck by how supportive Carleton fans were.
“It’s unlike anything else in Canadian college sports. I love the fans, I love the flock. It’s the best fans in the country,” he said.
Despite the loss, Carleton fans continued to root on the Ravens throughout the match. (Emma Weller/CBC)Increased police presence
Ottawa’s police and bylaw services said they carried out an extensive campaign alongside community and university partners to ensure the safety of fans, party-goers, and neighbours.
Police said there was an increased police presence in Sandy Hill and around Lansdowne Park before and during the game and that is expected to continue through the rest of the day.
In an email, police said it will “focus on Criminal Code, Liquor Licence and Control Act offences, and other general conduct issues. As always, public safety will be the number one priority.”
City officials say bylaw will be watching out for other infractions like loitering, public intoxication and blocking of sidewalks.