Toyota inks rugby deal
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has signed a three-year sponsorship agreement for Toyota NZ to become the official mobility partner of the All Blacks and Black Ferns.
The deal extends to the Maori All Blacks, All Blacks and Black Ferns Sevens, All Blacks XV and New Zealand Under-20s.
It also means Toyota branding will appear across training jerseys and kits for all national teams, as well as during test-match experiences.
“We are thrilled to be announcing a partnership with Toyota,” says Mark Robinson, chief executive officer of NZR. “It is a highly respected and incredibly well-known brand, and we are excited about what we can achieve together.
"Much like rugby, Toyota is deeply embedded in the fabric of New Zealand life. The shared values and strategic alignment between our organisations have made this a natural fit.
“Having a global partnership with an organisation of this calibre presents a significant opportunity to collaborate as we support our teams and advance New Zealand’s national sport.”
Tatsuya Ishikawa, CEO of Toyota NZ, adds: “Announcing a partnership with an iconic brand like New Zealand Rugby is a big moment. As a nation, we are united in our pride for our national sports heroes and heroines.
“Our vision for Let’s Go Places is about bringing everyone in on our journey to a mobility company and moving forward together. Sport is a powerful connector. We’re excited to work with NZR to engage even more meaningfully with our local communities.”
Ishikawa says the value in supporting all national teams in this way is significant for Toyota NZ, and offers opportunities to be involved and help engage fans across pinnacle events on the rugby calendar.
The Black Ferns’ coach, Allan Bunting, says: “The success of our teams is as much about who we have on the field as we do off it and we look forward to this partnership as we head into our exciting domestic test-match schedule.”
The partnership kicks off immediately with Toyota branding starting to appear on training kits from June across NZR teams. First up will be the Maori All Blacks in Japan on June 28.
