Hunt on for Six Nations sponsor as Lloyds TSB opt out of new contract

THE search is on for a sponsor of the Six Nations as Lloyds TSB has ended its five-year association with the competition.

The first and, to date, only title sponsor of the tournament opted not to renew its deal, which expired at the end of last season’s competition.

However, Lloyds TSB’s decision to withdraw hands the Six Nations an opportunity to maximise the commercial pulling power of a tournament which has benefited from rugby’s increased profile in the professional era.

Although sponsorship of the Six Nations no longer fits into the group’s ‘‘business objectives’’, the British banking giant admitted the championship remains a valuable commodity with which to be associated.

The competition is a pan-European event following the inclusion of Italy in 2000. With a vast audience worldwide it is no surprise it has already fielded bids from a number of multi-nationals anxious to replace Lloyds TSB as holder of the title deeds. Six Nations commercial director John Feehan said: ‘‘I am pleased to be able to say we are receiving significant expressions of interest in the future title sponsorship of the championship from a number of major blue-chip companies.

‘‘The Six Nations marketplace comprises approximately 180 million of the most affluent consumers on the planet, and throughout our territory there is a growing commitment to rugby.

‘‘Our matches in 2002 were attended by almost one million people, with 100 million more watching on television. This is by far the biggest and most successful annual rugby tournament in the world, and a powerful platform from which to develop our commercial partnerships.’’

Lloyds TSB have announced that, while sponsorship of the tournament itself is no longer suitable for the company, they do intend to maintain an interest in the game.

Elsewhere, Bordeaux have beaten off the challenge of Saracens and Munster to sign Scotland international Gordon McIlwham. The prop has signed a two-year deal with the French club under new coach Steve Nance.

McIlwham feared his top flight career was over after failing to secure a new contract with Glasgow Warriors. He said: ‘‘Bordeaux came up with the right offer at the right time.

‘‘They needed to get things tied up before the French League transfer cut-off date and neither Sarries nor Munster could get anything comparable on the table.

‘‘Heading across the Channel is a really exciting prospect both for myself and my family.’’

McIlwham will link up with former Glasgow team-mate James McLaren at the French club.

In other transfer news, Bath have confirmed the signing of France international tighthead prop Alessio Galasso, 28, from French champion-ship semi-finalists Montferrand.

Bath team director Mike Foley said: ‘‘Alessio is a key signing. He has extensive first-class experience both at International and A’ level for France and is a rare talent.”