Lloyds scores 'landmark' England Rugby alliance

A lender has swooped to score an international rugby partnership.

Lloyds has been named the official banking partner of England Rugby.

Bosses say the deal will see the bank’s Black Horse logo added to the back of England Rugby’s men’s and women’s team shirts and anthem jackets. 

They add the tie-up, described as a “landmark, multi-year agreement”, includes a commitment to bolster grassroots rugby union clubs, enhance community facilities and introduce “tens of thousands” of youngsters to the game.

Suresh Balaji, Lloyds’ chief marketing officer, said: “Rugby is at the heart of communities across Britain. 

“As a bank rooted in those same communities, we're proud to partner with the Rugby Football Union to help strengthen rugby at every level.

“Seeing our iconic Black Horse on the England shirt for the first time is a proud moment.”

Bill Sweeney, Rugby Football Union chief executive, added: “This is a truly significant partnership and marks an important moment for rugby in England.

“What makes this relationship particularly exciting is its potential to make a real difference across every level of the game.”

Earlier this year, Lloyds revealed it was scrapping the Halifax brand after 173 years on British high streets, with all branches set to be rebranded as Lloyds or shifted to a nearby Lloyds base throughout 2027.

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