World Rugby has extended its long-standing partnership with Emirates as a worldwide partner for the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France and Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.
As the Dubai-based airline reinforces its commitment to the sport, it is also extending its official sponsorship of the Emirates World Rugby Match Officials through to 2027.
The pair have described their relationship as ‘pivotal’ in the development and performance of elite match officials since 2013, after originally joining forces back in 2007.
World Rugby Chairman, Sir Bill Beaumont, said: “We are delighted to announce the extension of our long-term and successful collaboration with Emirates for the next two men’s Rugby World Cups and in support of our men’s and women’s match officials programme.
“Emirates’ global network and passion for our sport will be key in our efforts to make rugby truly global and their proven excellence in customer experience will be an asset to take our fan services to the next level.”
Through the support from Emirates, World Rugby will continue to invest in the development of the top match officials, which the governing body has highlighted is central to its focus of respect and discipline.
Furthermore, after the success of the ‘Whistle Watch’ content series presented by former international referee Nigel Owens and sponsored by Emirates, the partners have now promised to continue to to create ‘innovative content to immerse fans into the world of match officials’ and inspire young referees to take part while making rugby’s laws more accessible
“Rugby is a sport with great values and a proud heritage in many countries,” added Emirates Airline President, Sir Tim Clark. “It is also a sport that’s attracting more participation and interest across communities each year as we are seeing in the UAE where rugby just made it into school programmes nationwide.
“We see rugby as a great platform to bring people together under a shared passion for the sport.”
