Page 101 – Ministry of Sport

49ers Add More Partners to Faithful to the Planet Program

Posted on April 30, 2025 by bonny

The San Francisco 49ers have intensified their commitment to environmental sustainability with the continued expansion of their ‘Faithful to the Planet’ programme, now backed by 13 corporate partners.

The initiative, which launched in 2023, has quickly become a leading sustainability model within the sporting world.

Ryan Connors, senior director of global partnerships sales & strategy, shared his insights on the initiative’s progress and growing impact.

“Beyond the tangible outcomes of our projects, our coalition has evolved; FTTP members are coming together to participate in sustainability summits and local volunteer activities, while also engaging in joint retail promotions and global impact initiatives,” Connors said.

“We are proud to have set a sustainability benchmark within professional sports and eagerly anticipate the continuation of our endeavours in partnership for the benefit of the planet,” he said.

In its third year, the programme welcomed new collaborators including Lexus, NetApp and PG&E, who are long-time partners of the 49ers.

They join a growing coalition of companies from sectors such as technology, retail, automotive, and food and beverage.

Together, these brands work alongside the team to drive positive environmental impact, with over USD$100,000 contributed to global conservation efforts to date.

Partnering with Dollar Donation Club, the initiative channels funding to three key environmental organisations: Save the Redwoods League, Plastic Fischer, and Trees for the Future.

So far, the programme has helped restore more than 333,000 square feet of redwood forest, removed over 71,000 pounds of plastic waste from rivers, and planted upwards of 91,000 trees across Africa.

To mark Earth Day and celebrate the latest additions to the coalition, the 49ers hosted the second-annual Faithful to the Planet Summit at Cadence Headquarters in San Jose, California, located near Levi’s Stadium.

Cadence, a member since 2024, showcased its sustainable operations with an on-site community garden where staff grow and harvest their own produce.

Representatives from 11 partner organisations attended the summit, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that drives the programme’s success and continuing the momentum of what is proving to be a transformative force in sports-led sustainability.

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F1 Academy Lands Partnership With Morgan Stanley Ahead of Miami GP

Posted on April 30, 2025 by Courtney

Morgan Stanley has officially partnered with F1 ACADEMY, becoming the first financial services brand to align with the all-female motorsport series in a landmark sponsorship move.

The partnership will debut during Round 3 in Miami, where American driver Ava Dobson will race a Hitech TGR car featuring a bespoke Morgan Stanley livery and matching race suit.

Susie Wolff, managing director of F1 ACADEMY, described the partnership as an important milestone for the series and a strong endorsement of its long-term vision for women in motorsport.

“It is fantastic to see Morgan Stanley, a brand that has driven excellence and innovation for 90 years, investing in women’s sport and championing female talent in motorsport,” Wolff said.

This collaboration signals Morgan Stanley’s first foray into motorsport, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to investing in women’s sport and supporting gender equity across elite athletics.

As part of its season-long involvement, Morgan Stanley will roll out brand activations at selected races and offer curated hospitality through the F1 ACADEMY Paddock Club experience.

In addition, the partnership includes collaborative events with The Female Quotient, aiming to connect clients and fans with initiatives that spotlight female empowerment through sport.

This partnership reflects a growing shift in the sporting landscape, as global institutions recognise the power of representation, inclusion, and long-term investment in women’s professional pathways.

Formula 1 welcomes PwC as Official Consulting Partner

Posted on April 30, 2025 by Courtney

In a significant development within the sporting business landscape, Formula 1 has officially welcomed professional services firm PwC as its Official Consulting Partner.

This collaboration, which commences during this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix, pairs two dynamic organisations that are both dedicated to achieving high performance in the face of complex challenges.

The multi-year agreement aims to leverage PwC’s strategic consulting capabilities to enhance various aspects of Formula 1’s global operations.

This initiative aligns with the sport’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and performance improvement, essential factors for maintaining its competitive edge in an ever-evolving market.

Commenting on the partnership, chief commercial officer of Formula 1, Emily Prazer, said: “As two brands founded upon the need to solve complex problems at the highest level, partnering with PwC is a natural fit for Formula 1.”

“Their consultancy expertise will support our complex and evolving business as we look to innovate and continue our global growth, and our global platform will enable them to bring their business to our millions of fans, both at events and watching at home,” Prazer said.

PwC US senior partner, Paul Griggs, added: “Formula 1 represents the kind of high-performance environment where strategy, speed and innovation converge – and that’s where PwC thrives.”

“As we work alongside F1’s team, we see an incredible opportunity to support them in their drive to the leading edge, bringing additional innovative thinking to complex challenges – helping them shape their future across an ever-changing global landscape,” Griggs said.

As part of the partnership, PwC will gain considerable access to the Formula 1 brand, including prominent signage at select races and opportunities to engage with clients and stakeholders at Grand Prix events throughout the season, expanding their visibility within the fanbase.

This partnership signals a promising shift in the partnership dynamics within the sport, as Formula 1 continues to enhance its operational strategies while providing PwC with a robust platform to engage with a diverse and expansive audience.

As initiatives such as this unfold, stakeholders across the sports business sector will undoubtedly be keen to monitor the resultant innovations and operational enhancements that arise from this collaboration.

Nike Faces Lawsuit Over NFT platform closure

Posted on April 30, 2025April 30, 2025 by Courtney

Nike is currently facing legal challenges in the United States, prompted by a proposed class action lawsuit from an Australian customer who purchased the company’s non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

The plaintiff claims that Nike has engaged in deceptive and unfair business practices following the closure of its digital fashion and collectibles subsidiary, RTFKT, in December of last year.

Nike acquired RTFKT in late 2021 as part of its strategy to enhance its presence in the digital asset space.

The lawsuit asserts that the closure of RTFKT has significantly diminished the value of the Nike NFTs, leading to financial losses for investors.

It further contends that the NFTs were never registered as securities with the Securities Exchange Commission, suggesting that Nike allegedly misled customers by promoting these digital assets prior to the sudden shutdown of the RTFKT marketplace.

The plaintiff argues that had buyers been aware of the unregistered status or Nike’s plans to dissolve the platform, they would not have purchased the NFTs at the aforementioned prices and no less than $5 million in damages.

This legal dispute places Nike alongside other sports organisations, including the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and DraftKings, which have encountered their own legal issues regarding NFT initiatives.

The slump in NFT market value, combined with escalating regulatory scrutiny, has prompted numerous businesses to withdraw from the Web 3.0 landscape.

RTFKT, which was established in 2020, specialised in creating digital shoes and collectibles for metaverse avatars.

Nike’s acquisition was aimed at tapping into RTFKT’s expertise in game development engines, blockchain technology, and augmented reality.

However, as consumer interest wanes and regulatory concerns mount, Nike’s decision to close RTFKT reflects a broader trend among companies reevaluating their involvement in the metaverse and NFT sectors.

Collingwood Partners with TaylorMade Golf in Two-Year Deal

Posted on April 30, 2025April 30, 2025 by Courtney

Collingwood Football Club has secured a two-year partnership with renowned golf equipment brand, TaylorMade Golf, marking an exciting collaboration in the realm of sports marketing and fan engagement.

As an official partner of Collingwood, TaylorMade Golf will operate in the Golf Products category, integrating their brand into the club’s dynamic ecosystem.

This partnership will see the introduction of match-day activations tailored for Collingwood supporters, thereby enhancing the spectator experience at both the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Marvel Stadium.

Commenting on the partnership, CEO of Collingwood, Craig Kelly, said: “We are delighted to welcome TaylorMade and look forward to working with the team across both our football programs.”

“This partnership will allow players, staff, and members to enjoy something we all love,” Kelly said.

The integration of TaylorMade’s activations into match days aims to create engaging experiences for fans attending Collingwood home games, as this initiative not only benefits supporters, but it also reinforces the club’s commitment to building a vibrant community around its sporting events.

2024 AFLW Best and Fairest winner, Ruby Schleicher, added: “As an athlete, I’m always looking for new ways to challenge myself, and golf has definitely delivered.”

Echoing the club’s sentiments regarding the partnership, Marketing manager for TaylorMade Australia, David Webb, said: “TaylorMade Golf is thrilled to join forces with the Collingwood Football Club in an exciting partnership that shares our commitment to driving performance at the highest level,” Webb remarked.

Noting the potential for unique activations that celebrate the spirit of the game, positioning this collaboration as a natural fit within the broader sports landscape.

Initially starting from modest beginnings in Illinois, it has evolved into a leading brand in golf equipment, recognised for its performance focus and technological advancements.

In a notable fan engagement initiative, the partnership also includes an exclusive prize giveaway where supporters have the chance to win a limited-edition Collingwood FC Signature Cart Bag. The winner will be announced on May 13, adding to the excitement surrounding this new venture.

This partnership signifies a strategic move for both organisations, leveraging the strength of Collingwood’s loyal support base and TaylorMade’s reputable presence in the golfing community, signalling a promising trajectory for collaboration in the future.

AFL Honours Umpires During Community Umpiring Week

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

The Australian Football League (AFL), alongside the wider football community, is set to unite during Round 8 of the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season to pay tribute to its umpires through the celebration of Community Umpiring Week.

This initiative seeks to underscore the significant roles umpires, men, women, girls, and boys, play in Australian Football, promoting respect for these officials while also fostering awareness of umpiring development pathways available across the sport.

Commenting on the upcoming Community Umpiring Week, AFL’s executive general manager of game development, Rob Auld, said: “Community Umpiring Week is a crucial initiative for Australian football, recognising the invaluable contribution of umpires to our game,”

“Throughout the week and on AFL match days, we aim to provide local and junior umpires with experiences that contribute to their development and assist in advancing their umpiring careers through engagement with our elite officiating team,” Auld said.

As the AFL aims towards its ambition of one million participants by 2033, Auld highlighted the necessity to attract more individuals into umpiring.

Despite reaching a landmark figure of over 21,000 umpires last year, he stressed the ongoing need for support and optimal experiences for all umpires involved, noting: “Umpiring offers a fantastic avenue for connecting with football while reaping the social and wellbeing benefits that come with officiating.”

“Our ‘More to Footy’ campaign showcases stories like that of Aka Tseng, a local umpire from the Northern Territory, who embraced umpiring to engage with her community after relocating from Taiwan, ultimately establishing new friendships and acquiring new skills—she loves it,” Auld said.

In appreciation, Auld extended gratitude to the community umpires across the country, whose commitment enables the ongoing success of countless games played each weekend.

He acknowledged the support of the AFL Umpires Association (AFLUA) and the AFL/AFLW-listed umpires for their contributions in fostering umpiring at all levels.

Particularly noteworthy is the 72% increase since 2022 in female and junior participation in umpiring, translating to an addition of nearly 1,200 umpires to the ranks.

In celebration of Community Umpiring Week, which builds on the vital on-field experiences gained by junior umpires during the AFL Gather Round, a range of initiatives have been planned to enhance engagement between AFL and community umpires, foster skills development, and create memorable match-day experiences.

These activities, scheduled across all states and territories, include:

Over 100 AFL umpires attending local umpiring training sessions and officiating junior football matches.
Community umpires leading AFL umpires onto the field at each Round 8 match, providing a unique and rewarding game-day experience.
Junior community umpires officiating half-time NAB AFL Auskick grid games.
AFL captains engaging with community umpires at the coin toss and posing for photographs.
AFL umpires officiating community junior matches, creating lasting memories for both umpires and players.
Recognition through Umpire Service Awards for over 20 umpires who have surpassed 25 and 50 years of service.

Second Ticket Phase Announced For Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Announced

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

With more than 275,000 already sold, the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup is on track to be the biggest in history with more tickets set to go on sale on May 14.

Commenting on the event, Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, shared her excitement: “We’re thrilled to offer fans another chance to be part of the celebrations when tickets go on sale in May.

“This tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience for everyone, from lifelong supporters to first-time attendees,” she said.

Second-Chance Ticket Window Opens 7 May

Fans who missed out during the initial sales phase will have another opportunity when a second ticket window will open from on 7 May and close on 9 May.

Eligible fans will receive an email with instructions on how to purchase during this exclusive period.

More Tickets Released as Tournament Nears

As the 100-day countdown approaches, additional tickets will become available, which will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis through the official website.

Tickets will cover all matches, including high-demand seats for the final, while tickets fo key fixtures such as England v Australia in Brighton and England v Samoa in Northampton will be released once venue capacities are confirmed.

Purchase Securely Through Official Channels

Fans are strongly encouraged to buy tickets only via the official site, which ensures secure transactions and guarantees entry to matches.

The official resale platform will launch on 24 June, allowing fans who can no longer attend to resell their tickets at face value.

International Interest Continues to Grow

Findings from a recent ticket purchaser survey indicate a burgeoning international interest in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, with 11% of ticket holders coming from outside the UK, however, the domestic appeal remains robust, as 89% of purchasers are UK-based.

There is a balanced demographic split between male and female attendees, with 30% of fans planning to attend in all-female or mostly female groups.

Additionally, 35% of ticket holders will experience a professional women’s rugby match for the first time, highlighting the sport’s growing appeal.

Demons Announce Guerra As New CEO

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

Paul Guerra has been named the new CEO of Melbourne Football Club, following an extensive search process.

Currently the CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Guerra brings decades of leadership experience and a strong values-driven approach that has earned him widespread respect.

Commenting on the appointment, Melbourne President Brad Green highlighted Guerra’s track record of success.

“Paul is a highly respected CEO with a proven record of delivering results in member organisations.

“His people-first approach and alignment with our values make him the standout choice,” Green said.

The club’s board has pledged full support to Guerra as he takes on the task of advancing the club’s football programs and operational priorities.

Guerra’s background includes executive roles such as managing director, CEO, and chairman across a range of industries and member-based organisations.

His international experience further positions him as a strategic leader.

Green also acknowledged the leadership of David Chippindall, who has served as interim CEO for the past six months.

“I’d like to recognise and thank David Chippindall for guiding the club with authenticity and composure during this period.” Green said

“He is an exceptional leader and a highly valued member of our executive team,” he added.

Guerra’s appointment signals a new chapter for the club’s strategic direction, membership engagement, and broader role within the Australian sporting community.

The RFEF launches ‘Equipazo’, a social project that backs football as a driver of change

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

In a strategic move to leverage football for social change, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), in partnership with the UEFA Foundation for Children, has unveiled ‘Equipazo’, a pioneering initiative aimed at utilising the sport as a catalyst for social transformation.

The project is designed to enhance the quality of life for disadvantaged children, advocating for equality, integration, diversity, and healthy lifestyles through the medium of sport.

The inception of Equipazo reflects a strong commitment to both national and societal impact, engaging various entities including clubs, NGOs, foundations, and associations that are dedicated to supporting at-risk populations.

The initiative prioritises several critical objectives: promoting participation in sports, improving health and educational outcomes, preventing violence, and fostering social inclusion.

Operating under the banner “Salir a Ganar” (“Go Out to Win”), the RFEF reinforces its resolve to dismantle barriers that children might face throughout their formative years.

Central to the project’s implementation is a partnership with Club Dragones de Lavapiés, an institution that embodies the values of diversity and community-building by bringing together young athletes from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

This collaboration highlights the importance of celebrating variations in culture while promoting unity through sport.

To bolster the initiative, the RFEF is pledging its resources, providing partners with access to facilities, logistical support, professional training, and increased visibility.

This comprehensive support structure aims to serve multiple social groups, including refugees, the homeless, individuals with disabilities, and vulnerable children, thereby underscoring the federation’s commitment to social responsibility within the sports sphere.

Paris 2024 Report Reveals Record-Breaking, Inclusive Olympic and Paralympic Games

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

At the core of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games was a vision that redefined what it means to host a global sporting event.

Paris 2024 blended elite competition with a long-term vision for sustainability, inclusivity, and urban transformation.

Paris 2024 became the first Olympic Games to achieve full gender parity in competition, which was milestone was reached through initiatives such as mixed-gender events, while the organisers also ensured balanced representation among volunteers and the workforce.

In another step towards inclusivity, the “Marathon pour Tous” gave amateur runners the chance to compete on the Olympic course.

Environmental impact was a key priority for Paris 2024 and the official report sayd the Games cut carbon emissions by half compared to London 2012 and Rio 2016, aligning closely with the goals of Olympic Agenda 2020.

Several legacy projects were highlighted in the report, where the Olympic Village is being converted into a permanent, accessible residential community in Seine-Saint-Denis.

French schools have also adopted the “30 minutes of daily exercise” initiative, promoting health and wellbeing beyond the sporting arena.

The report also establishes a model for future Olympic and Paralympic events, setting a new global standard in hosting, legacy, and impact.

Why Players Aren’t Moving Clubs Despite Higher Potential Salaries

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

Following the AFL and AFL Players Association’s agreement on a new pay deal at the end of 2023, which significantly increased club salary caps, expectations arose for substantial player movement.

Contrary to the traditional emphasis on player loyalty, the enhanced financial capacity of list managers was anticipated to incentivise players to seek lucrative offers from rival teams.

However, Chad Warner’s recent decision to sign a new two-year contract with the Sydney Swans demonstrates how the adjusted salary cap has empowered clubs to retain their key players rather than lose them to competitors.

Recently, it has been revealed a considerable difference between the financial benefits of remaining with current clubs and those offered by exploring the open market.

The understanding was that departing players could significantly increase their earnings, while staying implied a financial concession.

While disparities in offers continue, as seen with Tom De Koning’s choice between Carlton and St Kilda, the overall landscape has shifted, where clubs are now utilising their financial resources to narrow the gap between “stay” and “go” compensation, reducing the allure for top-tier players to change teams.

Although free agents may still find higher-paying opportunities elsewhere, a growing number of players are benefiting from their original clubs increased financial commitments.

Throughout the AFL, a rising number of players exceeding the million-dollar salary threshold, primarily those developed by their current clubs.

As player salaries rise, the dynamic between potential earnings and player loyalty is becoming less noticeable, with clubs investing more significantly in retaining their established talent.

Leeds United unveil concepts of enhanced Elland Road Stadium

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

Leeds United Football Club has announced the release of proposed designs aimed at enhancing Elland Road stadium, a move anticipated since the initial plans detailed in September 2024.

The recent endorsement from Leeds City Council’s Executive Board, which unanimously supported the proposed regeneration vision, sets the stage for further discussions.

The council will be reviewing the pre-application for the stadium’s modernisation during a Plans Panel meeting scheduled for Thursday, 8th May 2025.

The ambitious plan seeks to elevate the stadium’s capacity from its current tally of 37,645 to a potential maximum of 56,500, with ongoing designs suggesting a final capacity of approximately 53,000.

The proposed enhancement marks an evolution of the significant characteristics that define Elland Road, focusing on the revitalisation of the West and North Stands, along with improvements to the South Stand.

These upgrades are designed to better accommodate general admission and hospitality needs, in response to a growing demand spurred by the 26,000 supporters currently on the club’s season ticket waiting list.

In a bid to involve fans and the local community in the development process, the club will host a public exhibition at the Centenary Pavilion at Elland Road.

This exhibition will take place over two days: Thursday, 22nd May 2025 and Friday, 23rd May 2025.

Additionally, the community is invited to participate in two consultation events as part of a roadshow aimed at gathering input from local stakeholders:

The Holbeck Club
– Tuesday, 13th May 2025 (5pm-8pm)
The Dragon Pub
– Monday, 19th May 2025 (5pm – 8pm)

The public exhibition at The Centenary Pavilion, Elland Road, will be arranged as follows:

Thursday, 22nd May 2025
– 11am-12pm BSL and Quiet Session
– 12pm-8pm
Friday, 23rd May 2025
– 2pm-8pm

Through this initiative, Leeds United aims to ensure that the voices of fans and the community are heard, aligning the future of Elland Road with the aspirations of its supporters.

NFL and Nike Partner on “Rivalries” Uniform Initiative

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

Nike and the National Football League (NFL) have joined forces to unveil ‘Rivalries,’ an ambitious new program aimed at enhancing the connection between athletes and fans through a bespoke range of uniforms and fan gear.

Spanning the next four seasons, Rivalries will elevate the excitement surrounding NFL rivalry games with specially crafted Nike gear that celebrates enduring traditions while fostering communal ties through unique designs.

Commenting on the initiative, NFL’s chief revenue officer, Renie Anderson, said: “The NFL is home to some of the biggest football rivalries, and today marks a historical moment as we share ‘Rivalries’ with the world.”

“Together with Nike, we are harnessing the power of rivalry matchups to bring fan excitement and community pride to the next level.

“Through specially designed player uniforms and limited-edition fan gear, we will embark on a journey that inspires competitive spirit and reveals the winner in all of us,” Anderson said.

The first participants in this initiative will feature teams from the AFC East, including the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and New York Jets, and the NFC West, which includes the Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks.

During a designated home game against a division rival, each participating team will wear a unique Rivalries uniform, designed with extensive insights rooted in the local community.

These designs reflect the rich history of each market, drawing on elements that resonate deeply with the identity of the specific city.

Following their debut, Rivalries uniforms will become an enduring part of the teams’ uniform collections for three years, alongside existing alternate uniforms.

Teams from the AFC South and NFC North will showcase their Rivalries uniforms in 2026, followed by NFC East and AFC West in 2027, and finally, teams from the AFC North and NFC South in 2028.

The unveiling of this year’s Rivalries uniforms is set to occur prior to the inaugural rivalry game, with designated AFC East and NFC West matchups to be announced after the the NFL schedule is released.

Fans will have the opportunity to purchase an array of new jerseys, sideline apparel, and fan gear, including T-shirts, hoodies, jackets, and headwear.

Fans can look forward to the availability of Rivalries jerseys and apparel ahead of the first rivalry matchup on various platforms, including Nike.com, NFLshop.com, Fanatics.com, individual team stores, and other retail partners.

These items will also be accessible across international NFL Shop sites in Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Australia, as well as select international retailers.

Crows and Viterra continue partnership to boost regional footy

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Courtney

The Adelaide Crows are set to embark on a regional tour across South Australia, thanks to an ongoing partnership with the prominent agricultural network, Viterra.

This initiative, now in its second year, aims to engage local communities and bolster support for country football.

Expressing his enthusiasm about the partnership, Crows CEO, Tim Silvers, said: “The Country Connect initiative is a fantastic way to inspire the next generation, and last year, our collaboration with Viterra positively impacted hundreds of regionally-based children and their communities through three key events.”

Silvers also emphasised the importance of maintaining connections with country football and noted that the partnership allows the club to reach rural and regional areas where passion for the sport runs deep.

Viterra’s CEO ANZ, Phillip Hughes, added: “Sports are crucial in helping keep our communities active and connected, whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, sport can greatly enhance mental health and wellbeing,” Hughes said.

As part of this collaboration, past players such as Tony Modra and Scott Welsh, along with current AFLW stars Eloise Joines, Chelsea Biddell, and Brooke Tonon, will actively participate in supporting local footy clubs.

The Crows plan to host junior clinics and distribute Country Crow memberships during their visits.

The initiative kicks off in Mundulla, in the state’s south-east, home to current Adelaide defender Mitch Hinge on May 31 and June 1.

Lastly, the Crows will travel to Booleroo Melrose Wilmington in the mid-north on June 21-22, and then to Wirrulla on the Eyre Peninsula on August 23-24.

Crusaders Announce Membership Plans for New Te Kaha Stadium

Posted on April 28, 2025April 28, 2025 by Courtney

The interest surrounding the launch of One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha in Christchurch has intensified, with its doors set to open in just under a year.

This new landmark venue is poised to significantly enrich the sporting experience in the region, creating a buzz among local stakeholders.

Reflecting on the journey from their former home, CEO of the Crusaders, Colin Mansbridge, said: “We’ve spent thirteen seasons at Apollo Projects Stadium, and we’re grateful for the chance to play in a venue that was constructed in just 90 days after the earthquakes.”

“Yet, the team, coaches, and management are genuinely thrilled about the new stadium; the anticipation sends chills down my spine,” he shared.

Apollo Projects Stadium, which opened on 24 March 2012, became a crucial home for the Crusaders after they were displaced due to the catastrophic earthquakes.

Initially expected to last only 3-5 years, it surpassed hosted over 300 events, including 115 matches for the Crusaders and three Super Rugby finals.

Mansbridge added: “It’s served us well; we’ve clinched seven Super Rugby titles during its tenure.”

“None of our current players have ever experienced playing anywhere in Christchurch other than Apollo, which makes the transition to Te Kaha all the more exhilarating,

“It’s a bittersweet moment for us, Apollo is like the legacy of One NZ Stadium; everything excellent about Apollo carries over into the new venue, but with even more.

“While it’s sad to bid farewell to Apollo, I eagerly anticipate creating new memories and embracing the new stadium as our home next year,” he said.

The move to Te Kaha embodies more than a mere change in location; it signifies the introduction of diverse membership and hospitality packages aimed at enhancing the fan experience.

Mansbridge noted that the opportunity is appealing to committed fans, and they would need to act swiftly, noting: “To ensure guaranteed first access to a seat in One New Zealand Stadium when tickets go on sale, I encourage fans to register as a 2025 member.”

“This will secure their place on our priority waitlist, ensuring they don’t miss out,” Mansbridge noted.

Also emphasising the intimate nature of Te Kaha, he said that closing the proximity of the field to spectators will vastly enhance the atmosphere:

“The closeness of the field of play to the fans is astonishing. I can’t think of anything more thrilling than being that close to the action,” he stated.

Beginning later this year, 2026 Crusaders memberships will soon be available for purchase, with details on the offerings to be revealed shortly.

Among these, the Ōtautahi Lounge Membership stands out—featuring two exclusive highlight bars, a private terrace, gourmet food and beverage options, and dedicated seating.

This enticing opportunity is particularly appealing to committed fans, though they are advised to act swiftly, as availability will be limited.

In addition to individual memberships, the Crusaders will offer four unique hospitality packages tailored for local businesses, covering all seven home games, priority for playoff tickets, and access to All Blacks Test Matches at the stadium.

Working closely with Venues Ōtautahi, Mansbridge indicated they’ve crafted a balanced and appealing mix of hospitality for both current partners and those new to the Crusaders’ game-day experience.

The pricing will aim to reflect the exceptional quality of the new offerings while remaining competitive.

Hospitality options will include the premier Ōtautahi Lounge with exquisite dining and sweeping views; the Field Club for unparalleled closeness to the action; the Crusaders Platform for a chic social environment; and the Premium Reserve, which combines comfort with elite service.

Mansbridge encouraged local businesses to express their interest in these offerings, with registration opening on 24 April and closing on 30 June.

General ticket sales for Crusaders games at One New Zealand Stadium are expected to commence in early 2026, marking a significant milestone in the sporting landscape of the region.