(23rd October 2000) – The Rugby Football Union has announced today that it has agreed a three-year match day sponsorship deal with Investec, the international specialist banking group, for all England autumn home internationals.

The deal worth £1.550m includes the forthcoming autumn internationals against Australia, Argentina and South Africa. As part of the agreement each series of games will be known as ‘The Investec International Series’ and each individual game as the ‘Investec International.’

Francis Baron, Chief Executive of the RFU, said ‘We’re delighted to renew our relationship with Investec who sponsored our successful fixture against South Africa in December 1998. Their return is positive for the Union and the deal underlines the growing commercial strength of the RFU as our business strategies take effect. We will be doing everything we can to ensure that the agreement benefits both parties during the next three years.’

Raymond van Niekerk, Global Head of Marketing for Investec commented, ‘Investec is proud to sponsor this prestigious series, which is a key event in the UK sporting calendar. We look forward to working with the RFU in making each game a memorable occasion.’

For further details contact:

Rugby Football Union Press Office:
Tel: +44 20 8831 6513 / 6514 / 6558
Website: http://www.rfu.com