HSBC converts ARU partnership

The Australian Rugby Union has announced HSBC as the official banking partner to its national team in a three-year deal running until 2016.

HSBC’s sponsorship covers France’s forthcoming tour to Australia, the national team’s Bledisloe Cup Test matches against New Zealand and Rugby Championship encounters with Australia, Argentina and New Zealand throughout the term of the contract.

The deal extends HSBC’s involvement in rugby union after it sponsored the British and Irish Lions’ tour to Australia earlier this year. It is also the title sponsor of the Sevens World Series, a designation it has held for the past three years.

HSBC has previously been associated with Australian rugby union through its 12-year partnership with Super Rugby franchise New South Wales Waratahs. The bank also has an active involvement through its ambassador programme, which includes Australia captain and international rugby’s record appearance-holder George Gregan.