Mazda is the new Official Title Sponsor of Connacht Rugby. The Japanese car firm will invest €1.5m in the province over the next three years. As well as being the new shirt sponsor, players and officials will drive Mazda vehicles for the duration of the deal.
This is now the third province to be linked with a car firm. Toyota Ireland is the main sponsor of Munster Rugby and Volkswagen Ireland are one of the main sponsors of Leinster Rugby.
Given the boost that such deals have given these brands, it is understandable that Mazda Ireland would be pleased. “Mazda Ireland is delighted to be the new title sponsor for Connacht Rugby. The passion and ambition of Connacht’s management and supporters is immense. We are thrilled to support this exciting new chapter in Connacht Rugby’s proud history,” said Michael Howe, Country Manager, Mazda Ireland.
Mazda will work closely with Connact Rugby to develop marketing activities to increase support for the province and promote big match days.
“Mazda, like Connacht, is beginning an important new chapter, as we prepare to launch our 6th generation of cars with SkyActiv Technology. This technology will deliver major fuel savings and emission reductions, whilst retaining Mazda’s fun to drive characteristics. The sponsorship of Connacht Rugby provides an excellent platform for new customers to experience our cars.”
This deal could provide a much needed boost to Mazda, a brand who have underachieved in the Irish market in the last number of years. Mazda has 2.08 per cent market share in Ireland, despite having a range which is by-and-large praised by critics. Mazda sells just 4.2 per cent of its cars in Connacht, so this is likely to give a boost to sales in the region. Rivals Ford sell 8.7 per cent of its cars in Connacht and Toyota sells 12.41 per cent of its cars in the province.