MTN South Africa has ended its long-running sponsorship of the Springboks. MTN said that the sponsorship agreement was ending after eight years of “record-breaking success”.
The Boks won the Rugby World Cup twice during the period of MTN’s sponsorship – in 2019 and in 2023.
FNB, however, has replaced MTN as the Springboks’ official principal sponsor.
FNB will elevate its sleeve sponsorship to the title role for all national rugby teams – men’s, women’s, sevens, and all age group sides.
FNB has been the principal sponsor of the Springbok Women’s team for the past three years.
CEO of SA Rugby Rian Oberholzer welcomed the partnership.
FNB CEO Harry Kellan said the bank was eager to build on its legacy of supporting rugby in South Africa, having been involved with the sport since 2017.
“FNB has a long history of help and support of rugby and we are extremely proud and honoured to now further extend our help as the principal sponsor, leading and headlining in our partnership with the Springboks.”
FNB chief marketing officer Faye Mfikwe said the bank’s commitment to rugby development was evident in its efforts to support the sport at youth level.
“Our investment in youth platforms like Classic Clashes and Varsity Cup has enabled FNB to support the development of young talent across all spheres of rugby, and across various South African communities,” Mfikwe said.