Japanese automotive manufacturer Subaru has been named as the away shirt sponsor of Wales’ national rugby union team.
The move comes after the Welsh Rugby Union in June agreed a four-year deal for fellow Japanese automotive manufacturer Isuzu to become its new main sponsor. That deal was signed with automotive importer IM Group and so incorporates both the Isuzu and Subaru brands.
Isuzu’s logo will continue to feature on Wales’ home shirts, while Subaru was today (Monday) introduced as the WRU launched the new away shirt. The WRU said Wales will wear the new shirt, complete with Subaru branding, for the next two seasons.
“We took a new and innovative approach to our latest shirt sponsorship negotiations and looked at ways to maximise value for our partners and increase exposure for our teams on a global scale," WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips said.
“Switching between Isuzu and Subaru for our home and change kit is an exciting twist on the traditional way of doing things and we expect both jerseys to be extremely popular with supporters around the world.
“To associate with two hugely significant Japanese brands in this way as we build towards the Rugby World Cup in 2019 in Japan is a major coup for Welsh rugby and will pay dividends as it further improves the global appeal of our national game.”
While serving as Wales’ away jersey, the new shirt will make its debut for the national team’s clash against Georgia in Cardiff on Saturday.