Gallagher confirmed as new title sponsors of Premiership Rugby

Global insurance brokers Gallagher have been confirmed as new title sponsors of English rugby union's Premiership.

Premiership Rugby has announced a multi-year 'strategic business and marking' partnership with Illinois-based Gallagher that be starting on July 1.

The announcement will see Gallagher succeed Aviva as title sponsors of the English game's flagship competition, which will be known as Gallagher Premiership Rugby from next season when it kicks off on 31 August.

In addition to naming rights, Premiership Rugby said branding opportunities and local community programmes are included in the agreement.

Gallagher becomes the competition's fourth title sponsor in its 20-year history after Allied Dunbar, Guinness and Aviva.

Premiership Rugby chief executive Mark McCafferty said: "The international expansion of Premiership Rugby has been accelerated in recent years and it is fitting that we are now partnering with a global company with an equally strong presence in the UK.

"The last decade has seen major growth in Premiership Rugby's fan base and it is a huge credit to our clubs - and the way they have grown their businesses - that we can announce this new partnership.

"We are very much looking forward to the first matches of Gallagher Premiership Rugby in September," stated McCafferty.

The Chief Executive also acknowledged the partnership that Premiership Rugby have shared with Aviva that will be ceasing shortly.

"We'd also like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to Aviva for our eight-year partnership which is one of the longest running and most successful title partnerships in British sport."

On release of the announcement J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO of Gallagher shared his perspective on the new alliance.

"By uniting with this globally-known and fast growing franchise, we have a terrific opportunity to increase awareness about our company, values, expertise and services, and jointly participate in community projects and causes to make a difference.

"This dynamic business and marketing partnership with Premiership Rugby reflects who we are culturally and professionally."