IRFU Statement On Puma Sponsorship!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Irish Rugby Football Union and PUMA wish to announce that they have reached an agreement whereby PUMA will no longer be the official kit supplier to Irish Rugby. PUMA will supply kit to all Irish International teams to cover the 2013/14 rugby season.

This agreement has been reached in the wake of PUMA’s strategic decision to exit all rugby activity across Europe.

Commenting Philip Browne, Chief Executive, Irish Rugby Football Union said: “We want to thank PUMA for their support over the past number of years, they have been an exemplary sponsor of Irish Rugby; the early engagement and manner in which they approached their requirement for an exit to the Irish contract reflects their genuine interest in the well being of Irish rugby.

“With the RWC 2015 in England, the 18 month time scale for the ongoing supply of kit allows us ample time to source a world class kit partner to replace the PUMA brand.”

Tony Ward, General Manager, PUMA UKIB said: “Puma has very much enjoyed its association with Irish rugby and this decision reflects a broader strategic shift in PUMA’s international marketing and product focus. We have felt very much part of the Irish rugby family throughout our association with the IRFU.

“We wish Irish rugby every success in the future and thank the IRFU for their wholehearted support throughout our relationship.”