Diageo Ends London Irish Sponsorship

Drinks producer Diageo has curtailed its long-term sponsorship of London Irish after the rugby union team signed former Ulster fly-half Paddy Jackson.

Diageo, which supported London Irish for more than a quarter of a century, acted after the club signed the 27-year-old, who was found not guilty of rape in March last year. Within days of the conclusion of the trial, Jackson’s contract was terminated by the Irish Rugby Football Union.

A spokesperson for Diageo said that London Irish’s decision to sign Jackson, who played for Perpignan in France’s Top 14 last season, “is not consistent with our values”.

According to reports, the club in response said that it was “understandably disappointed” with the decision and added that an offer to hold a meeting with Diageo’s senior management in Dublin in May was not taken up.

“London Irish will be moving on without the support of Diageo, who have chosen to stand down after a nearly 30-year association with the club,” the club’s spokesman added.

Cash Converters announced earlier in June that it would also be ending its sponsorship of the club for “a series of reasons” although London Irish insisted that the decision had nothing to do with Jackson’s arrival.

Meanwhile Paddy Whiskey has said that it will also review its partnership with London Irish, according to the Irish Times.

London Irish has returned to the Premiership for the 2019/20 season following promotion from the second tier.