Gilbert Strikes New Zealand Rugby Deal
Gilbert has secured a new supplier partnership with New Zealand Rugby (NZR).
The deal designates the UK rugby ball brand as the official rugby ball of the All Blacks and Black Ferns men’s and women’s national teams, as well as New Zealand’s sevens teams, and domestic competitions.
The agreement sees Gilbert return as a partner of NZR after an 18-year hiatus. The governing body’s longstanding principal partner Adidas previously produced its official rugby balls.
However, the latest renewal with the German sportswear giant, worth a reported NZ$10m (£4.76m) annually, covers all kits for New Zealand’s national teams but does not include rugby balls.
A prominent name in international rugby union, Gilbert supplies all Six Nations teams, as well as the South Africa, Australia, and Argentina national teams.
The East Sussex-based company’s expansive partnership roster also includes World Rugby, the World Rugby Sevens Series, Premiership Rugby, the United Rugby Championship and Super Rugby.
New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson said, “We expect this will be a welcome announcement for teams and players across New Zealand, as Gilbert are renowned for their innovation and expertise in this space.
“They have a long history in sports and we are proud to be aligned with such a well-respected brand and to see world class Gilbert balls at the centre of rugby action throughout our country.”
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