Blitzboks to debut the jersey with the PnP logo at the Cathay.HSBC Hong Kong Sevens on Friday
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WHEN the Springboks Sevens take on Uruguay in the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens tomorrow, their jerseys will feature the team's new sponsors, Pick n Pay and FNB.
The retail giant has signed a four-year contract as a sponsor of SA Rugby, with the company’s logo set to feature in gold on the back of the Springbok jersey, as well as those of all other national teams in a new partnership, while the banking giant's logo with feature on the front.
FNB has also extended their partnership with the South African Rugby Union, entrenching their level of commitment and support of the sport into all levels of SA Rugby, which includes the front-of-jersey for the men’s Springbok XV and 7’s teams as well as the extension of their current support and position with the Bok Women’s team, and SARU Youth teams.
The Pick n Pay branding will also appear on the front of all national teams’ training apparel in a new departure for SA Rugby’s sponsorship model. Historically, the rights to the front of the playing jersey and training jersey have been the preserve of a single partner.
The sponsorship will also have an impact at community level as Pick n Pay has also acquired the naming rights to the national club championship, the Gold Cup, and a new women’s rugby competition, the details of which will be announced later this year.
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, said: “Through this partnership, Pick n Pay and SA Rugby unite to uplift, empower, and inspire. Just as the Springboks and our other national teams play for the pride of the nation, Pick n Pay’s people have made a difference every day for over 50 years.
“The company has a proud legacy, serving South Africans and always being there for communities in need. Both teams prove that through teamwork and commitment, we can inspire a nation, both on and off the field.
“We are particularly excited that Pick n Pay will be assisting us in promoting the community game through their partnership with the Gold Cup. Similarly, they are backing our commitment to the women’s game by partnering us in a new elite competition that is in the planning stage,” said Oberholzer.
He said FNB has been an outstanding partner to the Springboks and Rugby for many years.
"We are delighted that we have aligned to take the relationship to the next level”, added. Oberholzer.
Sean Summers, Pick n Pay CEO said the agreement with Pick n Pay marks the coming together of two loved and iconic brands, both deeply rooted in resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of ordinary South Africans.
“This sponsorship is about more than just a logo on a jersey – it’s about celebrating the values that unite us as South Africans. The Springboks are a symbol of unity, and for decades, Pick n Pay has been a trusted partner in homes and communities, always backing South Africans through great value, creating opportunities, or supporting communities when they need us most.
“We are incredibly proud to back the Springbok teams as they push forward on their journey of excellence, and we are excited to help grow rugby from grassroots to the professional stage, ensuring that our customers and supporters can be part of this journey every step of the way.
“The Springboks are a true symbol of determination, and we could not be prouder to announce this sponsorship as we ourselves take bold steps to drive our growth,” added Summers.
Harry Kellan, CEO of FNB said, “We are extremely proud and honored to now further extend our help as the principal sponsor leading and headlining in our partnership with the Springboks. Over the years, rugby has helped unify our country and has provided a unique platform for South Africa to showcase its sporting talent on both local and global stages. FNB supported South African rugby as a sponsor since 2017 and as principal sponsor offers an opportunity for us to continue living our legacy of 'help’ and remain devoted to making a positive societal contribution through rugby that will take the country forward.”