Vodafone Ireland has partnered with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) in signing up as the main sponsor of the Ireland Women’s Rugby Team in place of Aon risk and human capital. For the first time, Vodafone branding will feature on the front – and not back – of the Ireland women’s jersey marking a new chapter in the company’s support for the sport.
The deal, which was finalised last month, will run until 2028 and represents “a significant investment” in the future of the women’s game. The sponsorship builds on Vodafone’s support for women’s rugby in Ireland, from backing the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Dublin and Belfast in 2017 to sponsoring the Women’s Interprovincial Championship since 2021.
Message
It also builds on Vodafone’s decade-long partnership with the IRFU as main sponsor of the Ireland’s men’s team since 2016. The brand message, ‘Team of Us’, is intended to communicate the belief that rugby belongs to everyone, celebrating the connection and sense of belonging that comes from standing behind the national team.
A record crowd of more than 30,000 fans attended the Ireland’s Guinness Women’s Six Nations match against Scotland earlier this year, reflecting the growing popularity and momentum behind the women’s game. Partnering with the IRFU, Vodafone’s support and investment aim to build on this by supporting players and connecting fans with the teams.
Above: IRFU President Tony O’Beirne pictured with Vodafone Ireland CEO Sabrina Casalta, along with Ireland women’s rugby players Erin King, Fiona Tuite and Stacey Flood
