Ford’s rugby deal to end
Some of the country’s top players will need to hand back their sponsored cars when the final whistle is blown on a partnership between New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and Ford NZ after three decades.
The marque’s sponsorship of the sport in this country is set to end on January 31 because the two parties have been unable to reach a new deal.
Ford NZ has provided NZR with around 80 vehicles for high-profile players and coaches, which were generally turned over every 12 months.
Every player in Scott Robertson’s 36-strong All Blacks’ squad for the Rugby Championship received a Ford to use for the year, understands the NZ Herald.
The deal extends to national team coaches, the five NZ Super Rugby Pacific head coaches and five NZR-contracted assistants. Some NZR staff have access to sponsored vehicles.
While the use of cars is largely a discretionary benefit, some All Blacks have contractual vehicle agreements and, in those cases, compensation or replacements may be required.
“We are proud to have been a sponsor of the All Blacks and NZRU for more than 30 years,” says Ford NZ in a statement supplied to the NZH. “However, the decision has been made to end the partnership in 2025.
“We are disappointed in the outcome but want to acknowledge it’s been a fantastic experience backing the teams in black over the years.
“We have deepened our relationships with the athletes and New Zealand sports fans around the country. As our way of saying thank you, Ford will support the players through the transition where needed.
“Ford will continue to be the driving force in sport in New Zealand with our supporting partnerships with NZ Cricket, NZ Hockey and the Ford Football Ferns.”
NZR says it’s grateful to Ford NZ for supporting the All Blacks and rugby more generally over the past 30 years. However, the marque and NZR have collectively decided to end their partnership in 2025.
“We have had a fantastic partnership full of highlights and shared in some great successes,” adds NZR. “We extend our thanks to the people at Ford for their support and know they will continue to be some of our biggest fans.”
