Sponsorship to net Munster €3m

Munster Rugby should benefit to the tune of at least €3 million from the newly-inked main sponsorship deal with Bank of Ireland over the next five years.

There is potential, admitted chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald yesterday, to add to the Munster pot by being successful on the pitch and he was keen to welcome Bank of Ireland back on board.

“Bank of Ireland have been working closely with us for a long time, as previous sponsors and as bankers to Munster Rugby. This deal is just an extension of a long-term relationship.

“During the whole course of negotiations we had a number of options and were prepared to wait for the best option available to us. This was the best option for us.

“We have had a fantastic relationship with Bank of Ireland extending back to the early professional days of Munster Rugby and seeing it come full circle demonstrates the value we both see in such a partnership. We look forward to more successful days ahead.”

David Merriman, the bank’s regional manager, said: “We are delighted to renew what has been a very successful association with Munster Rugby. This announcement will extend our formal association dating back 15 years and it represents a proud relationship for our bank with this great province.”