DHL delivers Lions tour naming rights

Logistics company DHL has agreed a deal with the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) to become the naming rights partner for the upcoming British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.

Under the terms of the agreement, the tour will be known as the DHL Australia 2013 Lions Tour. The Lions will play nine matches during the tour, which will start with a game against Western Force in Perth on June 5, and conclude on July 6 in Sydney with the third and final Test against Australia.

DHL has already built up strong links with rugby through its partnerships with other competitions and teams, and this latest deal will help strengthen the association further.

“DHL has a long relationship with rugby, both domestically with Harlequins Rugby Club and across the world, so to be part of one of the most eagerly anticipated tours in recent memory is very exciting," said Phil Couchman, CEO of DHL Express UK and Ireland. 

"We’re very proud of our past associations with the sport and look forward to delivering this exciting event to Australia.”