Major Sponsorship Boost for Munster Rugby

Munster Rugby was today given a huge boost ahead of Friday’s Heineken Cup quarter final against Llanelli, with the news that Toyota Ireland is to extend its sponsorship of the Munster provincial team.

The continued partnership between Munster Rugby and Ireland’s leading motor distributors will also include the Munster senior and under 20 sides and equals a € 5 million sponsorship investment by Toyota between 2007 and 2010. 

In addition to the basic sponsorship fee, Toyota’s on-going commitment to Munster Rugby takes account of bonus payments based on performances in the Heineken Cup. It also provides for continued investment in general marketing, communications and advertising that will help boost the Munster rugby and Toyota brand images.  

Attending the announcement today in Musgrave Park, Dr. Tim Mahony, Chairman, Toyota Ireland, said: “At Toyota Ireland we are delighted to continue our association with Munster Rugby.  We have enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership since 2004, during a time when Munster scaled the heights in European rugby and provided their many fans with imperishable memories of great games and wonderful travels. We look forward to continued success at a time when the redevelopment of Thomond Park and planned refurbishment at Musgrave Park signals a new chapter in the history of rugby in the province. 

“I am delighted that Toyota’s continued partnership with Munster Rugby will continue to 2010. Toyota Ireland has a long- standing commitment to sponsorships such as the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland and  I am thrilled the sponsorship also includes the under 20 team from where the next generation of senior players will emerge. I am also pleased to say that our sponsorship commitment between now and 2010 will take account of promotional programmes involving the Toyota dealership and also Munster’s unrivalled band of loyal supporters.”

 Munster Chief Executive, Garrett Fitzgerald, welcomed the news and commented, “The renewal of our partnership with Toyota is tremendous news. The timing of this announcement is particularly opportune, coming as it does as we face into this crucial end of season period in the Magners League and Heineken Cup. The support we have received in the initial period of sponsorship made the decision to renew an easy one from our point of view. Once again I thank Dr Tim Mahony and Toyota Ireland for their support. I look forward to continuing our association over the next three years.”