Land Rover has extended its agreement with World Rugby in being confirmed as the fifth worldwide partner for Rugby World Cup 2023 in France.
In a commitment to a sustainable future, the Rugby World Cup 2023 mascots will be known as ‘Land Rover Defenders of Tomorrow’ and will form a ‘key element’ of the global Land Rover campaign.
World Rugby Chairman, Sir Bill Beaumont, shared: “Land Rover is a true partner of rugby at all levels, and we are delighted to be extending our worldwide partnership for Rugby World Cup 2023 in France. As a tournament and a rugby family, we are committed to making a positive impact in France and more widely for our planet for future generations to enjoy.
“Our worldwide partnerships with Land Rover have always been purpose-driven. In Japan their active support of the Impact Beyond programme saw 10,000 children introduced to the sport. We are excited to share the same vision and commitment for France 2023 and look forward to working together to drive change for the future.”
Since becoming a Worldwide Partner of Rugby World Cup in 2015, the organisation stated that Land Rover has ‘inspired thousands of children from all over the world through’ its grassroots activities and Rugby World Cup mascot programme, allowing young rugby fans to join the team captains on the pitch ahead of every match.
Lennard Hoornik, Chief Commercial Officer of the vehicle company, noted: “Land Rover has been at the heart of rugby for two decades. As we write this next chapter, we share France 2023’s commitment to making a positive difference on society through rugby.”
To celebrate the extended collaboration, Land Rover rugby ambassadors Dimitri Yachvili and Bryan Habana were joined by Land Rover’s first child mascot for the tournament, eight year old Arthur from Paris.
“The next two years represent a significant time for Land Rover as we journey towards electrification and the Rugby World Cup will play an important part in that,” Hoornik added.
Land Rover also has deals with Cardiff Blues, Bath Rugby and Glasgow Warriors, as well as international partnerships with South African and Australian national sides the Springboks and Wallabies.
