Dhl Partners With Both Lions And Springboks Ahead Of 2021 Tour
The British and Irish Lions have extended their partnership with DHL Express, who will continue as the team’s Official Logistics Partner in a deal which also sees the brand add a unique partnership with Tour opponents South Africa.
DHL Express has announced that it will provide tailored logistics services to both side as part of the deal which – for the first time ever – will see all of the players involved in the series wearing the DHL logo on the back of their jerseys.
“Rugby represents many important values such as teamwork, passion, speed and respect, all of which are core qualities which resonate very strongly with our DHL brand values,” said John Pearson, CEO, DHL Express.
“I am delighted to be continuing our partnership with The British & Irish Lions Tour next year and thrilled to be adding the Springboks as a partner, further building on our global ties with rugby. By partnering with both, we further highlight our commitment to rugby and to keeping the world connected. We look forward to engaging with the teams and fans of both the Lions and Springboks before and throughout the Tour.”
The Castle Lager Lions Series is scheduled to take place in July and August 2021, and is set to see the Lions take in an eight-match Tour of South Africa, including three Test matches against the reigning World Champions.
DHL will position itself as ‘The Team Behind The Teams’, backing both sides on and off the pitch, ensuring delivery of equipment, such as coaching, training and technical gear for the touring party – which will be made up of more than 100 people.
“Since our partnership first began in 2005, DHL have been an integral part of our team so we are delighted they will be supporting us once again,” said Ben Calveley, Managing Director, The British & Irish Lions.
“DHL plays an important role in ensuring the safe delivery of our kit and equipment so that the squad is given the best possible chance of success. We look forward to working with them as our planning for next year’s Tour continues.”
Jurie Roux, CEO, South Africa Rugby, added: “DHL is a brand that is synonymous with delivering excellence so today marks the partnership of two teams who strive to be the best. DHL have consistently been a supporter of rugby here in South Africa, so we are delighted to have their expertise behind us as we bid to defend our turf against the Lions.”
DHL has delivered the last two Tours to New Zealand in 2017 and Australia in 2013, adding to its partnership and association with the Lions that reaches back to 2005. The organisation also holds a number of other existing partnerships across the sport, including with the Rugby World Cup and World Rugby Sevens Series, as well as with Harlequins, Ireland Rugby, and the DHL Stormers in South Africa.
