Multi million Euro deal unites the two brands until 2020
Dublin, Monday January 27th; Leading sports clothing brand Canterbury of New Zealand has been announced as the new kit supplier to the Irish Rugby
Football Union. Irish fans will see the Ireland team line up in the new Canterbury kit for the first time at the Aviva
Stadium on November 8th when they take on South Africa. The new multi-million euro deal announced today unites the two
brands from 1st September for six years until 2020, including two World Cup tournaments.
Since its establishment in 1904 Canterbury has expanded to become the world’s largest rugby apparel brand and is the
official kit of six rugby nations including England, Russia, Spain, Japan, USA and now Ireland. Bringing over a century
of experience to the table, Canterbury will team up with the IRFU for the second time since their inaugural partnership
which ran from 2000 until 2009.
Canterbury will work closely with the IRFU management and international players to produce match day, training and bench
wear for the national squad as well as all junior and underage teams including the O2 Irish Wolfhounds, Under 20’s and
Women’s national side. Official Canterbury IRFU merchandise will be sold through all major sports retailers and online
from autumn 2014.
Chris Stephenson, Canterbury CEO, added:
“In the IRFU we have found a partner with shared values, a shared heritage and a shared focus and ambition to succeed at
the pinnacle of our disciplines. These mutual traits were paramount in our decision to join forces and share in what we
believe will be a truly exciting journey for Irish Rugby, most particularly the supporters, and Canterbury through the
next two Rugby World Cups.”
Commenting Joe Schmidt, Irish Head Coach, said:
“I’m delighted to have Canterbury partnering with Ireland in our upcoming World Cup cycle. I’ve worked with Canterbury
in the past and have always been impressed by the quality and innovation they bring to the table. “
Commenting Pat Fitzgerald, President IRFU, said:
“I’d like to welcome Canterbury into the Irish Rugby family as we journey towards the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Having the
backing of the world’s top rugby apparel brand is testament to the strength of the Irish Rugby brand and reflects
positively on the progressive steps being taken to ensure that we cement our position at the top of world rugby.”
ENDS