RFL seeks Four Nations sponsor

The Rugby Football League is looking for a headline sponsor for this autumn’s Four Nations tournament.

Gillette have sponsored the Tri-Nations in previous years, but have decided against sponsoring the inaugural Four Nations tournament, which sees France join the competition alongside Australia, England and New Zealand, although they will continue their sponsorship of the England team.

The four week long tournament kicks off in October with games to be played in London, Yorkshire, Lancashire and France.

Paul Kimberley, the RFL’s Commercial Director, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for a brand to raise its profile and associate itself with one of the UK’s fastest growing sports by sponsoring a prestigious international tournament. Last year’s World Cup in Australia was a huge success commercially with record TV audiences and it’s likely that this year’s Four Nations will follow suit.

“Rugby League prides itself on being a family sport and inclusive for all and we’re pricing tickets for this event accordingly. Not only will this tournament attract bumper crowds but also big TV audiences with both the BBC and Sky screening fixtures.”

Nathan Homer, of Gillette UK & Ireland, said: “The Tri-Nations was a fantastic event for Gillette and helped us meet our objectives at the time.

“Since the last tournament we’ve changed our sponsorship objectives slightly and are now investing more resources into grassroots Rugby League as well as the England national team who we are committed to until the end of 2010. We naturally wish the RFL, who are one of our longest standing and strongest partners, all the best with this year’s tournament.”