Berkeley, CA – The California Golden Bears football team is gearing up for the 2026 season, with spring practice officially slated to begin on March 18. The announcement, made Monday, marks the start of a new era for Cal football under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Tosh Lupoi. The spring schedule culminates in the annual Spring Game on April 18 at California Memorial Stadium, promising a first look at the team’s progress and new strategies. Fans eager to witness the evolving team dynamic will find details regarding the Spring Game released at a later date.
This spring practice period is particularly significant as Lupoi, a former Cal player and coach, returns to his alma mater to lead the program. His arrival has already generated momentum, with key players like quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele choosing to return for the 2026 season. The team also boasts a top-15 transfer portal class and has successfully retained crucial talent on both offense and defense, signaling a commitment to building a competitive roster. The coaching staff assembled by Lupoi brings experience from both the NFL and programs consistently contending for the College Football Playoff, suggesting a high level of expertise and ambition.
Spring Practice Schedule and Pro Day
The 13 spring practice sessions will all take place at the historic California Memorial Stadium. Following the initial practice on March 18, the team will hold its Pro Day on March 19, providing an opportunity for NFL scouts to evaluate Cal’s potential draft prospects. A second practice is scheduled for March 20, before the team breaks for spring break. Practice will resume on April 1, continuing the preparation for the upcoming season. This structured approach allows for focused development and evaluation of players before the intensity of the fall campaign.
A New Era Under Coach Lupoi
Tosh Lupoi’s return to Berkeley has been met with enthusiasm from the Cal faithful. He previously served as a defensive line coach for the Golden Bears from 2011 to 2013. Lupoi’s coaching resume also includes stints with the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Jacksonville Jaguars, as well as with Michigan and Alabama. His experience at the highest levels of the sport is expected to translate into a more polished and competitive Cal program.
The impact of Lupoi’s leadership is already evident in player retention and recruitment. Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele’s decision to return for another season provides a significant boost to the offense, offering stability and experience at the quarterback position. The addition of highly-rated transfer portal players further strengthens the team’s depth and potential. Lupoi’s focus on assembling a coaching staff with NFL and playoff experience underscores his commitment to building a program capable of competing at the highest level.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The 2026 schedule presents a challenging yet exciting landscape for the Golden Bears. The team will face premium ACC opponents including Clemson, Virginia Tech, Wake Forest, and Pittsburgh as part of their conference schedule. The 129th edition of the Big Game against Stanford is also on the horizon, promising a fierce rivalry matchup. Cal will open the season with a nonconference game against UCLA, providing an early test against a familiar foe.
Season tickets are currently available for renewal and purchase, offering fans the opportunity to secure their spot for all the action. More information on season ticket options can be found here. The university encourages fans to act quickly to guarantee their attendance at California Memorial Stadium throughout the 2026 season.
As the team prepares for spring practice, the focus remains on building a strong foundation for the upcoming season. The return of Coach Lupoi, coupled with key player retention and strategic recruitment, has instilled a sense of optimism within the program. The next key date for fans to mark is March 18, when the Golden Bears officially kick off their spring practice schedule, offering a first glimpse into the future of Cal football.
What are your thoughts on the upcoming season? Share your predictions and excitement in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow Cal football fans!
