RFU Announces Allianz As Premier 15s Title Partner
The RFU has announced that Allianz Insurance will become the new Title Partner for the Premier 15s, as well as becoming the new Insurance Partner of England Rugby.
The deal will see the brand take on naming rights to the top women’s rugby competition in the country, with the official name becoming the Allianz Premier 15s as well as the RFU’s grassroots programme Inner Warrior, which aims to inspire more women to take up the sport.
The news comes after the previous naming partner – crisps brand Tyrrells – opted not to renew its sponsorship of the league in May 2020. The Premier 15s will return on 10th October and is set to finish with a final at a neutral venue on 8th May 2021.
Meanwhile, the brand will also become the Official Insurance Partner of England Rugby, and will support the RFU in building a ‘sustainable and diverse future for rugby’, according to the organisation.
Nicky Ponsford, Head of Women’s Performance at the RFU said: “This commitment from Allianz will have a significant and positive impact on the continued success of our women and girls’ teams. Attracting a partner like Allianz is also a great honour and shows just how far the women’s game has developed.”
Simon McGinn, general manager, Commercial & Personal, Allianz Insurance, said: “We are delighted to announce this exciting new agreement with England Rugby as the Official Insurance Partner, which will see us become partner to the men’s and women’s England rugby teams. Allianz has a longstanding history with this fantastic sport and we are looking forward to continuing our involvement through this new partnership.
“Our partnership with the RFU also provides us with an excellent new opportunity to support women’s sport, as we become the title partner of the Premier 15s and Inner Warrior, the grassroots programme to encourage girls and women into sport.”
One of the largest general insurers in the UK, Allianz has a history in rugby, and will work with the RFU to promote the women and girls’ game, a strategic priority for the governing body. The pair will support the sport through increased awareness activities and the continuation of grassroots programmes.
