SA Rugby and FNB announced on Wednesday the broadening and deepening of their relationship with the bank becoming the principal partner of all national teams – with the FNB logo now taking centre stage on the front of all team jerseys.
The agreement sees the FNB logo move from the shoulders of the Springboks to the front of the playing jersey, but also onto the front of the men’s and women’s sevens teams, and all age group teams.
It also marks the extension of their partnership with the Springboks Women’s team having become the team’s principal sponsor three years ago.
“FNB has been an outstanding partner to the Springboks and rugby for many years and we are delighted that we have aligned to take the relationship to the next level”, said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.
“To have them partner all our national teams is a step change for our game and we look forward to continuing a long and successful partnership.”
The FNB logo will be rolled out onto all national teams over the coming weeks and will make its first appearance on the front of a Springbok Test match jersey when the Boks run out against Italy in Pretoria on 5 July.
Harry Kellan, CEO of FNB said: “FNB has a long history of help and support of rugby, and we are extremely proud and honoured to now further extend our help as the principal sponsor leading and headlining in our partnership with the Springboks.
“Over the years, rugby has helped unify our country and has provided a unique platform for South Africa to showcase its sporting talent on both local and global stages.
“FNB supported South African rugby as a sponsor since 2017 and as principal sponsor offers an opportunity for us to continue living our legacy of ‘help’ and remain devoted to making a positive societal contribution through rugby that will take the country forward.”
Faye Mfikwe, Chief Marketing Officer of FNB, added: “As a proudly South African brand, our decision to deepen this relationship is in line with our core brand tenet of ‘help’.
“Our investment into youth platforms like Classic Clashes and Varsity Cup has enabled FNB to support the development of young talent across all spheres of rugby, and across various South African communities.
“Our efforts in youth development have supported transformation in the sport and is a demonstration of our grassroots to greatness sponsorship strategy, which allows us to not only help develop local talent but also showcase our country’s ability to compete in the global arena.
“We recognise the power of sport in nation-building and our SARU partnership is also pivotal in our journey to empower women in sport.”
Skull Crusher
In case of windy conditions during a match, the umpires may decide to have the bails removed to avoid having them blown off. They may also be replaced by heavier bails to keep them secure on the stumps. Although the bails may not be present, they are assumed to still be on the stump. It will then be up to the umpires to decide if the wicket had been broken or not.
Stick Shift
The French national rugby team is known as Les Bleus.