Defender scores world cup deal

The new Land Rover Defender has been named as a worldwide partner of the women’s Rugby World Cup 2021 being played in New Zealand later this year.

The tournament was due to take place last year but because of Covid-19 was postponed and will now be played between October 8 and November 12.

Land Rover has supported rugby at a variety of levels over the past 25 years, including being a worldwide partner for the men’s world cup, but this is the first time the marque backed the women’s event.

Its commitment will see a fleet of new electric hybrid Defenders being provided to organisers of the tournament.

Officials will also select 52 youth mascots, from New Zealand and other countries, as “Defenders of Tomorrow”. Land Rover says the youngsters will be chosen for their passion and dedication to changing their world for the better. 

Laura Wood, head of global PR brand and partnerships for Land Rover, describes the partnership with the international event as a “new milestone on the Defender rugby journey”.

“We have long committed to the game’s grassroots, helping introduce thousands of boys and girls around the world to rugby,” she explains. 

“Now it’s time for Defender to deepen that commitment by helping women’s rugby get the recognition it deserves. We are excited to fully integrate the new Defender … into our Rugby World Cup partnerships, starting this year.”