Rugby Australia Announce Defenders as Official Partners

Rugby Australia has announced Defender as an official partner for the upcoming Qatar Airways British & Irish Lions Tour, forging a partnership that exemplifies strength, resilience, and a shared heritage between two iconic brands.

This collaboration aims to inspire the next generation of players and enthusiasts worldwide. The pairing of Rugby Australia and Defender reflects a unique synergy; both are built for endurance and driven by a spirit of adventure.

Commenting on the partnership, Rugby Australia CEO, Phil Waugh, said: “Like the Wallabies, Defender are a brand who pride themselves on being the very best in their field, so we’re thrilled to have them on board as an official partner of the Lions Series.”

“They’re a long-term supporter of Rugby across the globe and here in Australia, and we’re looking forward to continuing our relationship with them moving forward,” Waugh said.

Sharing her perspective on the partnership, managing director of JLR Australia, Penny Ferguson, added: “Defender is proud to play an integral role in the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia.”

“Our brand shares a deep connection with the spirit of rugby – built on inner strength, team unity, and relentless determination. In 2025, with the Lions tour and the Women’s Rugby World Cup, we’re proud to support the game across multiple dimensions, both in Australia and globally.

“With the Home Men’s Rugby World Cup on the horizon in 2027, our commitment to the sport continues to grow,” Ferguson expressed.

This sentiment was echoed by Defender’s Global Managing Director, Mark Cameron, reinforcing the alignment between the values of the sport and the brand.

Building on its established commitment to the sport, Defender has previously been a Worldwide Partner of the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France and remains a Principal Partner for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025.

Furthermore, it has been a steadfast supporter of the Wallabies and Australian Rugby, signifying a long-term dedication to the growth and promotion of the game.

The Qatar Airways British & Irish Lions Tour of Australia is set to feature several key matches, including:

• Western Force vs. British & Irish Lions at 5:45pm AWST on Saturday, 28 June at Optus Stadium, Perth
• Queensland Reds vs. British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Wednesday, 2 July at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
• New South Wales Waratahs vs. British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Saturday, 5 July at Allianz Stadium, Sydney
• ACT Brumbies vs. British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Wednesday, 9 July at GIO Stadium, Canberra
• AUNZ Invitational XV vs. British & Irish Lions at 7:15pm ACST on Saturday, 12 July at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
• Wallabies vs. British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Saturday, 19 July at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
• First Nations & Pasifika XV vs. British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Tuesday, 22 July at Marvel Stadium, Melbourne

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