Springboks, MTN renew partnership

MTN has renewed its headline sponsorship of the world champion Springboks and will also be a principal partner for the eagerly awaited eight-match Castle Lager Lions Series.

The renewal was negotiated for five years and extends into 2025, supporting the ongoing effort toward rugby development and transformation in South Africa.

MTN has been the headline sponsor of the Springboks since 2017, a period during which both brands embarked on a journey of transformation that culminated in the Springboks becoming world champions in 2019.

“We found it fitting to continue to back the Springboks following a very successful period during which they became the 2019 World Champions, warming the hearts of our nation.

“MTN has been a long-time supporter of South African sport and the renewal of our sponsorship of the Springboks further entrenches our position as an ardent supporter of South Africa’s sporting ambitions,” said Mapula Bodibe, chief consumer officer for MTN SA.

“Sports fans have had to endure a frustrating year. Teams and their supporters were left with very little to cheer about due to Covid-19, but we are finally getting to the stage where our team is preparing to take to the field again and unite our nation as only they can.

“We are delighted to renew our headline sponsorship just ahead of the important Lions tour in July, providing the Springboks and South African rugby with the necessary support to grow well into the future, while also offering our fans great digital platforms to enjoy their love of the game, especially as they can’t be in the stadiums,” she said.

“Confirming the renewal of our partnership with MTN is massive for SA Rugby and we are thrilled to continue on this road with them,” said Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby.

“When we named MTN as our new headline sponsor four years ago, we realised that it represented a pivotal moment for SA Rugby and that welcoming a company of MTN’s size and reach was a significant moment for the sport.”

“They have been a wonderfully supportive partner during a time of regeneration for the Springboks and the wider South African rugby fraternity and have stuck with us through the pandemic. We are excited to continue to have MTN by our side,” he said.

Loyal fans will be rewarded for their patience over the coming months with plenty of unique experiences, exciting new prizes and competitions, all on Mzansi’s Bozza network.