IRFU unveil O2 as new sponsor

The IRFU has announced that O2 Ireland is the new official sponsor of the Irish national rugby team from tomorrow.

The agreement will be for the next six years to conclude at the end of the 2011/2012 season.

Mr Andy Crawford, President of the Irish Rugby Football Union said: "We would like to formally welcome O2 Ireland as our new official national team sponsor. O2 is a successful and respected brand that has supported Irish rugby at various levels including international, provincial and club since 2002 when it became Official Mobile Communications Sponsor for the IRFU."

Within the new agreement, O2 Ireland will have the rights to place its logo on all Ireland senior international and Ireland A team playing and training kit and team related IRFU merchandise.

The partnership will also give O2 Ireland key sites on advertising hoardings surrounding the pitch at home matches.

Danuta Gray, CEO at O2 Ireland said: "O2 Ireland has been committed to Irish rugby for a number of years now with our sponsorship of Ireland schools, Shannon senior rugby and our endorsement of Brian O'Driscoll and Eddie O'Sullivan."

O2 customers will have exclusive access to a selection of interactive services on i-mode on their mobile phones such as player diaries, as well as text alerts with the latest news and scores.

O2 customers will also be offered a preferential rate for membership of the Ireland Rugby Supporters Club.

In addition, as part of the new sponsorship, O2 Ireland will introduce a specially commissioned Ireland supporters handset.