Ford Enters Second Decade Of Rugby Support

27 October 2005

Ford Enters Second Decade Of

Support For All Blacks And Rebel Sport Super 14

On the eve of the All Blacks' tour of the United Kingdom, Ford New Zealand today announced it has renewed its sponsorship with the New Zealand Rugby Union for a further three years.

"Ford has been involved with the All Blacks since 1994, supporting them through thick and thin, and we feel this announcement is a fitting send-off as they travel to the Northern Hemisphere," said Ford New Zealand Managing Director, Richard Matheson.

When asked further about Ford's support of the All Blacks, Mr Matheson said: "Over the time we have been involved with the All Blacks, they have shown they have the ability to take on the best rugby teams in the world, and, in a similar way, Ford is committed to bringing the best Ford products from around the world to New Zealand."

"At a national level, we are excited to continue supporting the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders in the new Rebel Sport Super 14 format of the game."

"Moreover, we believe our core values of loyalty, commitment and grass roots support are shared by the New Zealand Rugby Union, and we continue to be proud to get the All Blacks from A to B."

New Zealand Rugby Union Deputy Chief Executive Steve Tew today welcomed the sponsorship renewal.

“We are delighted that Ford has again committed itself to the All Blacks and New Zealand rugby. They have had a long-standing relationship with the All Blacks and, like the All Blacks, they are committed to excellence,” he said.

Ford New Zealand's Managing Director Richard Matheson was on hand in Wellington to hand over the keys of one of the new All Black Fords to Steve Tew, NZRU Deputy Chief Executive.

To celebrate the sponsorship renewal, Ford also farewelled the team at Auckland Airport on October 27, 2005 with a brand-new BF Falcon, the bonnet of which will be signed by every All Black player and then donated to Ford New Zealand’s charity, Variety, The Children's Charity.

ENDS

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