Ulster Rugby Announces Long-Term Stadium Naming Rights Partnership with Affidea

Ulster Rugby has announced a long-term partnership with Affidea, a European healthcare company which includes the renaming of Ulster Rugby’s home ground to the Affidea Stadium.

This collaboration signifies a commercial move for the rugby club and a significant brand enhancement opportunity for Affidea, particularly as the healthcare provider expands its presence in the province of Ulster.

Commenting on the alignment of the organisations’ objectives, CEO of Ulster Rugby Hugh McCaughey, said: “We are delighted to welcome Affidea as our new stadium naming rights partner.”

“Affidea shares our passion for high performance, our commitment to the health and wellbeing of people across the province, and our vision for the future of rugby in Ulster.”

“Together, we will continue to invest in elite and grassroots rugby, and we look forward to seeing the Affidea Stadium become a hub for sport and community activity in Ulster,” McCaughey said.

Highlighting the strategic value for his company, CEO of Affidea UK and Ireland, Barry Downes, expressed: “Affidea is thrilled to partner with Ulster Rugby, a club with deep history, strong community ties, and passionate support to the local community.”

“This partnership represents an exciting opportunity for Affidea to further grow our presence and impact in the province of Ulster.

“Rugby is a game that inspires excellence, teamwork, and trust, values that align strongly with our approach to healthcare.

“We’re proud to see our name on a stadium that also represents those ideals,” Downes noted.

Effective immediately, the stadium will be known as the Affidea Stadium. Affidea, which operates over 410 clinics across 16 European countries, is in the process of establishing a state-of-the-art private hospital in Ulster, slated to open in 2026.

This new facility is projected to create 160 jobs and will incorporate an orthopaedic and sports medicine centre of excellence, complementing Affidea’s existing clinics in Belfast and Hillsborough.

The stadium renaming will be accompanied by refreshed signage, branding, and activation plans for both match days and wider community engagement.

The Affidea Stadium will continue to host Ulster Rugby’s men’s and women’s teams, Academy fixtures, schools’ competitions, and community events, contributing to the growth of rugby at all levels.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.