Global law firm Eversheds Sutherland has agreed a deal to become the first official partner of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, which will take place in England.
Eversheds Sutherland will provide all aspects of legal advice for event organisers as part of the agreement.
England was awarded hosting rights for the competition in October 2016 ahead of the United States and Canada. The tournament will be the biggest in the event’s history, with 16 teams to compete across 31 games in 14 venues across England.
Tournament chief executive Jon Dutton said: “To secure the first official partner more than four years out from the tournament is great news, particularly given that Eversheds Sutherland are a global brand with 66 offices across 32 countries.
“Eversheds Sutherland will bring strong legal acumen to help support the company’s development and their proactive approach has ensured they are the first of what I am sure will be many commercial partnerships that we will announce in the build-up to the tournament.”
This year’s World Cup takes place from October 26 to December 2 and will be co-hosted by Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Australia is the defending champion.