Toyota in talks to back Munster

TOYOTA have emerged as one of the front runners to become the new sponsors of the Munster rugby team following the withdrawal of O2 and current sponsors Bank of Ireland from negotiations with the Munster Branch.

A spokesperson for Toyota confirmed last night that they have commenced talks with the Munster Branch.

“We know that they are talking to a couple of other potential contenders,” a spokesman for Toyota said.

Munster Branch spokesman Pat Geraghty said: “I believe it is not prudent to discuss sponsorship while negotiations are ongoing.”

It is understood the Munster Branch is looking for sponsorship of up to €750,000 a year, well up from the €200,000 a year Bank of Ireland’s old deal netted for the province. The Munster Branch believes the team is a premium brand which has the potential to provide sponsors with massive exposure as its support base now extends well beyond the province.

Bank of Ireland is understood to have found the current demands too high and have decided to abandon one of its most successful sponsorship deals ever. O2 has also walked away from talks. The mobile phone firm is believed to have put close to €400,000 a year on the table.

Industry sources suggest that a €600,000 a year deal is a feasible target for the Munster Branch.

They point out the actual cost to the sponsor will be double the contract amount, due to marketing and other expenses.

Toyota is already engaged in a sponsorship deal with the GAA.

The winning and runner-up teams in the All-Ireland championships, National leagues and club championships all receive Toyota cars to raffle to raise funds for team holidays.