Pro12 Rugby Announces Guinness Extension
PRO12 Rugby has announced that Guinness will continue as title sponsor of the Guinness PRO12 Rugby Championship for another four years until 2020, continuing the partnership with the competition that began in 2014.
The 2016/17 season of the Guinness PRO12, which involves the rugby union clubs from Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales, starts on 2nd September.
In addition to the sponsorship extension it was also confirmed that the Championship’s flagship event, the Guinness PRO12 Final, will be held at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin, on 27th May 2017.
Speaking at the 2016/17 launch event at Aviva Stadium, Martin Anayi, managing director, PRO12 Rugby said: “We’re thrilled to have Guinness on board for another four years and their continued support is a testament to the strength of our Championship which gets better with every passing season. Sponsors like Guinness also appreciate that we have a ‘Fan First’ philosophy and that is why we have put on this Early Bird offer to reward supporters who want to book their place at the final on 27th May.”
“After the successes of the finals hosted in Belfast and Edinburgh, Aviva Stadium will provide another grand stage that rewards clubs, players and fans from across the Championship.
“Since it’s redevelopment in 2010, Aviva Stadium has fast become an iconic rugby arena and after a thrilling final at BT Murrayfield between Connacht Rugby and Leinster Rugby that set a new attendance record, it seems only right that we should try to raise the bar yet again here in Dublin.”
Oliver Loomes, country director, Diageo Ireland added: “Guinness has a longstanding heritage in rugby at all levels, and I’m thrilled to announce that we have extended our partnership with PRO12 Rugby until 2020, continuing our commitment to the sport we all love.”
“The Guinness PRO12 is one of the most competitive and exciting competitions in world rugby. Last season we saw some brilliant rugby as Connacht Rugby claimed the trophy following a nail biting final at BT Murrayfield. We are looking forward to enjoying some more epic encounters with the best teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Italy and are delighted that the Final is taking place at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, the home of Guinness.”
