Celtic League eyes overhaul as Magners extends sponsorship

MAGNERS Irish Cider has extended its title sponsorship of the Magners League for two years until May 2011.

Currently midway through their third season as title sponsor, the Magners renewal comes at an exciting time for the league, with Celtic Rugby confirming at the start of the season that a play-off structure will be introduced from 2009/10 onwards.

Stephen Kent, Marketing Director, Wm Magner Ltd, said: “Our relationship with Celtic Rugby has been productive and rewarding over the last three years and we are delighted to be extending our partnership.

“Since the first year of sponsorship the stature of the Magners League has increased significantly; the next two seasons will mark a new stage in the development of the tournament, particularly with the introduction of season ending play-offs and we are excited about the prospect of being involved in this process.”

David Jordan, Director of Celtic Rugby, also commented: “I am delighted that our partnership with Magners Irish Cider will be continuing until at least May 2011. The support and enthusiasm that Magners has shown in partnering and investing in our league has been self evident to all our stakeholders. In the three years since Magners came on board, we have seen a dramatic increase in attendances at matches and a substantial improvement in the competitiveness and attractiveness of our tournament.

“I believe that it is fair to say that the Magners League now commands huge respect in European and world rugby and the success of our teams when they transcend into other tournaments, and when Magners League players take to the international stage, is demonstrated by the fact that last season all European cross-border silverware was held in Celtic Rugby hands: Munster, European Champions; Ospreys, Anglo Welsh Cup holders and Wales, Grand Slam RBS 6 Nations winners. This season the trend looks even better with attendances ahead of last year by 20%, four teams in European quarter-finals and Ireland taking the 2009 Six Nations championship with a Grand Slam.”