British Airways will be the official naming sponsor of the Eastern Province ‘Mighty Elephants’ rugby team for the next three years, Piet van Hoven, British Airways/Comair’s managing director said on Sunday.
Van Hoven said the team would remain as the Mighty Elephants for the duration of the Currie Cup tournament, adding, ”We look forward to developing a lasting relationship with the team and the Eastern Province Rugby Union over the next few years.”
”In terms of this agreement, British Airways has exclusive naming rights of the professional team and all Eastern Province provincial teams, so rugby spectators will be seeing our logo on the teams’ playing and practice gear, as well as on the support staff’s clothing,” Van Hoven said.
The airline will also advertise in the stadium and on billboards as well as match programme advertising and will have rights to use the players at promotional events.
Current players include Enrico Januarie and Sean Plaatjies who play for the Cats Super 12 team and the Lions respectively.
”We feel that the Eastern Cape is a region that is often neglected and through our involvement in rugby we hope to help in the development of this part of the country,” said Stuart Cochrane, marketing manager for British Airways in South Africa.
British Airways is the official carrier of the Springbok Rugby Team and Kaizer Chiefs soccer squad. – Sapa