Admiral’s new deal with WRU
ADMIRAL has struck a new sponsorship deal with the Welsh Rugby Union.
The FTSE 100 motor insurance to loans firm, which employs more than 7,000 at offices in Cardiff, Newport and Swansea, has agreed a four-year title sponsorship deal for all leagues below the Premiership semi-professional level, including for the women’s game.
The Welsh national leagues will now be known as the Admiral National Leagues.
Admiral has a strong association with the game, having been a previous shirt sponsor for the Wales team.
In 2017 Admiral’s partnership with Welsh rugby changed emphasis, with sponsorship moving to the Wales pathway and Sevens jerseys.
WRU chief executive Steve Phillips said: “To retain a major blue-chip organisation like Admiral as a partner over a 15-year period is a hugely significant sign that Welsh rugby is doing something right.
“We are delighted to welcome Admiral back again for another four years, this time with impressive plans to support Welsh rugby’s national leagues.
“As always, they intend to bring a significant level of investment to the partnership, but will also be committed to maximising the impact of the partnership and this will be hugely beneficial throughout the game at community level.”
Cristina Nestares, chief executive of Admiral’s UK insurance business, said: “We’re delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with Welsh rugby.
“Many of the attributes we see in our colleagues at Admiral are shared by players of the clubs across the
Admiral National Leagues, including teamwork, problem-solving and encouraging others.
“These skills, learned and developed amidst passion and enjoyment for the game, don’t only create strong teams but bring benefit to the individuals in all aspects of their lives.
“We also know that our colleagues live in the same communities as many of the clubs, so supporting them is important to us.
“We’re committed and excited to use this partnership as a way to give back and help not just the clubs involved, but also the players and the wider Welsh communities in which they’re based.”
WRU community director Geraint John said: “We are delighted to welcome Admiral to the community rugby family.
“The news is a great boost to the community game as we continue to work towards the return of League rugby following the enforced break due to the pandemic.
“Club rugby brings Welsh communities together and, along with the clubs themselves, we look forward to working closely with Admiral to celebrate and champion their role.”