New Zealand Rugby has announced a new sponsorship deal with Gallagher, a US-based insurance company. This agreement gives Gallagher naming rights on the playing kit of the All Blacks, New Zealand’s famous rugby team. The Gallagher brand will feature on the training and match-day shorts of the All Blacks, the national women’s team known as the Black Ferns, the Maori All Blacks, and both men’s and women’s seven-a-side teams.
The announcement was made in Wellington, where New Zealand Rugby stated that the financial details of this multi-year deal have not been revealed. This partnership comes after New Zealand Rugby sought a new sponsor to replace Ineos Group, which ended its six-year agreement prematurely due to a failure to make payments. This abrupt termination led to legal action from New Zealand Rugby.
Gallagher is part of Arthur J Gallagher & Co, based in Illinois. The company has a strong presence in sports sponsorship across various American sports, including baseball and basketball. They are also the naming rights partner for England’s top rugby competition.
Mark Robinson, the CEO of New Zealand Rugby, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting Gallagher’s experience in elite sports and their commitment to rugby. He noted that this collaboration aligns with the goals of both organizations, enhancing their presence in the sport both on and off the field.
In addition to sponsoring the All Blacks, Gallagher will also become the jersey sponsor for New Zealand rugby referees in all domestic competitions. Prominent All Black player Beauden Barrett, a two-time World Rugby Player of the Year, has been named a global ambassador for Gallagher, further strengthening the partnership’s visibility.