It has been announced that Land Rover will be placed at the heart of Women’s Rugby, with the New Defender becoming a Worldwide Partner of Rugby World Cup 2021. Land Rover have expanded upon their 25-year commitment to supporting rugby at all levels around the world, with the announcement.
This will be the first time the global brand will support the women’s tournament as a Worldwide Partner with Defender pledging to help introduce new audiences. The announcement will run alongside the long-term Partnership for the Men’s tournament.
“We are very proud to be announcing our partnership with the New Defender for Rugby World Cup 2021. We have been fortunate to have worked with Land Rover for many years – a brand that is passionate about rugby and its values – and we are extremely excited to now be welcoming them to the partner family for the women’s edition of Rugby World Cup in New Zealand this year.
“Rugby World Cup 2021 will be a symbol of togetherness following the pandemic and we are anticipating a very special tournament on a number of levels. We are excited that the New Defender will be at the heart of the journey.” - World Rugby Chief Executive Officer Alan Gilpin
Land Rover have outlined their commitment to a more sustainable future as a brand, and Rugby World Cup 2021 and men’s edition in 2023 will provide a central platform to tell the story. This commitment will extend to the New Zealand tournament where a fleet of new electric hybrid Defenders will help the running of the tournament.
Children from across the New Zealand and beyond will be chosen to be apart of the fifty-two mascots who will be known as the Defenders of Tomorrow.
Sally Horrox, Director of Women’s Rugby at World Rugby, added: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with the New Defender for Rugby World Cup 2021. Forging meaningful partnerships that are purpose-driven is extremely important to us and we are particularly excited that the Defenders of Tomorrow mascot programme will engage and inspire our future rugby generation to act and deliver impact on and off the pitch.