World Rugby has completed its top-tier sponsor line-up for the 2019 World Cup in Japan with payment services company Mastercard returning as a worldwide partner of the national team tournament.
The deal announced today (Wednesday) sees Mastercard partner with rugby union’s showcase event for the third successive time, with the company again serving as the preferred card and digital wallet for Japan 2019. Mastercard will also be supporting the tournament’s ticketing programme.
As part of the agreement, Mastercard will look to package ‘Priceless’ access and experiences such as man of the match, helping fans to get closer to the tournament. Mastercard will also provide an exclusive incentive for cardholders to use their Mastercard when purchasing Rugby World Cup tickets.
Mastercard’s signing completes the line-up of six worldwide partners, joining Emirates, Heineken, Land Rover, Société Générale and DHL. Canon has signed as an official sponsor with attention now turning to the sponsor category, where World Rugby said interest is extremely high.
World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said: “Significantly, the inventory of worldwide partners has been secured in record time and with record value, which speaks volumes about the global prestige of the tournament as we accelerate towards the exciting prospect of a first Rugby World Cup in Asia and ensures a strong platform for the continued global development of the game.”