Renewed hope for Springboks Women as FNB becomes primary sponsor of SA Rugby teams

The Springbok Women may eventually match the competition of other global rugby powerhouses as they will now enjoy primary sponsorship from banking giant First National Bank (FNB).

On Wednesday, SA Rugby and FNB announced the broadening and deepening of their relationship with the bank becoming the principal partner of all SA Rugby national teams, which will result in the FNB logo now taking centre stage on the front of the jerseys.

The agreement sees the FNB logo move from the shoulders of the world-champion Springboks to the front of the playing jersey, but also onto the front of the men’s and women’s sevens teams, and all age-group teams.

It also marks the extension of their partnership with the Springboks Women’s team, having become the team’s principal sponsor three years ago.

It is expected that this “loud” partnership will at least elevate the women’s game, which has for the longest time been lagging behind the likes of England, New Zealand, France, Australia, Canada, USA and some others.

“FNB has been an outstanding partner to the Springboks and rugby for many years, and we are delighted that we have aligned to take the relationship to the next level,” said Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby.

“To have them partner all our national teams is a step change for our game, and we look forward to continuing a long and successful partnership.”

The FNB logo will be rolled out onto all national teams over the coming weeks – after long-time sponsor MTN’s agreement came to an end this week.

The FNB log will make its first appearance on the front of a Springbok Test-match jersey when coach Rassie Erasmus’ team run out against Italy in Pretoria on July 5.

“FNB has a long history of help and support of rugby,” said Harry Kellan, CEO of FNB. 

“We are extremely proud and honoured to now further extend our help as the principal sponsor, leading and headlining in our partnership with the Springboks.”

It has also been reported that retail giants Pick ’n Pay will take the sponsorship slot on the back  of the Springbok jersey with a R220 million deal.