Sumo Energy partner with QRU for Hospital Cup and Founders Cup

The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) has announced Sumo Energy as the official naming rights partner of the Hospital Cup and Founders Cup through to the end of 2027.

Australian-owned and operated, Sumo Energy sees Queensland’s premier club competition as a powerful platform to deepen its connection to the South-East Queensland community.

As part of the partnership, the energy provider will open a new Brisbane office in the coming months to further expand its regional presence.

Commenting on the partnership, Sumo Energy head of marketing, Alex Selles, said: “As a company, this is our first sporting sponsorship of this level. We feel a natural fit to grassroots.” 

“We don’t want to just be a name on the jersey but embed ourselves in the community in a positive way,” Selles said.

Selles emphasised the cultural and community strength of club rugby, particularly the camaraderie and identity forged inside the dressing room.

Growing with the Game Ahead of Rugby World Cup 2027

Selles and Sumo Energy CEO, Kel Fitzalan, share strong personal ties to the sport, both having played rugby in their school years. Their passion for the grassroots level and the sport’s broader momentum has fuelled the decision to invest long-term.

“We see the momentum to rugby in Australia as a whole and that only goes up with the Rugby World Cup coming in 2027,” Selles added.

Last season, the Hospital Cup delivered another memorable finals chapter as Bond University surged from fourth to clinch a 27–25 grand final victory over Brothers. The Bond University women also secured the Founders Cup, earning a premiership hat-trick.

QRU Welcomes a Meaningful Community Partnership

QRU chief executive, David Hanham welcomed Sumo Energy as a partner aligned with the values and aspirations of Queensland rugby.

“We are delighted to welcome Sumo Energy as a valued partner to support grassroots rugby through the Sumo Energy Hospital Cup and Sumo Energy Founders Cup.” 

“We will work closely with Alex, Kel and their team to elevate the Sumo Energy brand through these competitions, our clubs and our media partners,” Hanham said.

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