Rugby World Cup scores major sponsor
26 Sep 2008
Emirates has been named the official airline for the next Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand in 2011.
The sponsorship just announced in Auckland makes Emirates the first Worldwide Partner of IRB Rugby World Cup 2011. The Dubai-based airline is one of the leading sponsors of sport around the world and was the main sponsor of Emirates Team New Zealand’s challenge in the 32nd America’s Cup last year.
The Rugby World Cup is now one of the largest sporting events in the world and is being held in New Zealand for the first time in its 21 year history.
Well positioned
Emirates runs 28 flights into New Zealand each week and says it is well positioned to serve the thousands of rugby fans who will travel to the 2011 cup event.
Based on previous events the 2011 Rugby World Cup is likely to bring more than 65,000 international fans, 2,500 international media and 2,500 corporate/VIP guests to New Zealand.
Easy route for fans
Gary Chapman, Emirates' President Group Services says the airline has always had a great affinity with rugby through a number of high profile sponsorships.
Emirates' expanding network in six continents means it will be able to offer an easy route for rugby fans around the world to travel to New Zealand via Dubai, he says.
Significant milestone
''We are looking forward to working closely with the IRB and the Rugby New Zealand 2011 tournament organisers to ensure the success of Rugby World Cup 2011,'' said Mr Chapman.
New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark welcomed the announcement saying it was a significant milestone for Rugby World Cup 2011.
''Securing such a high-profile and respected sponsor is a major step for the tournament and will help New Zealand put on the best world cup yet,'' she said.
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