It’s official. The famous Crosstown Classic rivalry between Lafayette High School and Oxford High School is coming to an end. While the schools are separated by just over two miles, their shared commitment to facing one another in athletics events will cease.
Officials with the Lafayette County School District made the announcement Tuesday, confirming rumors and unofficial reports that had circulated on social media over the weekend. The district’s board of trustees was notified of the decision at its regularly scheduled monthly meeting held this past Wednesday. Oxford Superintendent Bradley Roberson was informed that same night. Coaches of various Lafayette sports teams were made aware of the news this past Thursday.
The rivalry will officially come to an end at the start of the 2026-27 school year, meaning the current athletic season will be the last the two programs face off in any sport. Lafayette officials cited a desire to “remain successful by pouring into the development of our athletes with the best resources available,” while also being more competitive in its classification, 5A, rather than facing 7A Oxford annually.
“After considerable research and consultations, the Lafayette County School District Administration made a decision not to schedule Oxford (athletic teams) starting with the 2026-2027 school year,” a statement from the Lafayette County School District reads. “After fulfilling future scheduling commitments, we will consider scheduling options more consistent with our classification and goals.
“Out of respect for a long-standing tradition and sports rivalry, this decision was not made lightly. After conducting substantial research, we look to the future of our sports program, as LSD remains grounded in the premise of being anchored in the success of our athletes, both on and off the field. In consultation with former coaches, community members, and state agencies, LSD determined that new scheduling options are in the best interest of the development of Lafayette athletes.”
“We acknowledge the end of an era and thank Oxford Schools for generations of good fun and rivalry during The Crosstown Classic,” the statement continued. “For many years, families and friends picked sides and passionately cheered on the teams. We believe that passion will remain as we all continue to cheer on all of our athletes. As we move forward, we wish our former rivals the best in competition in their pursuit of success in their division.”
While the school district argued that this decision is in the best interest of its student-athletes and coaches, a former Lafayette High School baseball player suggested otherwise.
“It doesn’t make any sense. Nobody is happy about it,” the Lafayette graduate told SuperTalk Mississippi News under the condition of anonymity. “Playing Oxford in sports was so fun. It was basically our version of a rivalry — like the Egg Bowl.”
Lafayette and Oxford last faced one another in football on Sept. 12 in the 54th annual, and final, Crosstown Classic. The Chargers won the matchup 63-20. Officials at Oxford said they would be open to renewing the rivalry if their counterparts at Lafayette happened to have a change of heart.
“For decades, this rivalry has brought our communities together and showcased the best of our student-athletes — their effort, pride, and sportsmanship. We are grateful for those memories and for the generations who helped make the rivalry special,” an official statement from the Oxford School District reads.
“Moving forward, Oxford will continue to pursue competitive opportunities that reflect our commitment to excellence and the growth of our student-athletes, both on and off the field. Should the opportunity arise in the future, we would welcome the chance to renew this great rivalry once again.”
