Ford Australia has announced a significant sponsorship deal with the Queensland Rugby League (QRL), with a four-year deal that makes Ford the Official Automotive Partner of the QRL.
The sponsorship will also see Ford become the official automotive partner of the Queensland Maroons, and the presenting partner of QRL Country Week.
Queensland Rugby League chief executive officer Ben Ikin said: “We are delighted to have Ford Australia join the Queensland Rugby League family.
“The Ford partnership will help our Maroons remain a force in the State of Origin arena.
“Our Maroons players are renowned for toughness on the field, and this trademark has also been a feature of Ford’s vehicles and business for many years.
“I’m not one to talk up rival codes, but it’s hard not to respect Ford Australia’s partnership with the Geelong Cats, which will reach the 100-year milestone by 2025.
“Let’s hope today’s announcement is the start of something just as special.”
“At Ford, we believe in the power of sport to unite communities and drive positive change. Partnering with the Queensland Rugby League allows us to engage with fans at a grassroots level, while supporting the growth of rugby league in Queensland. We are excited to embark on this journey with the QRL and we are very proud to join the team,” said Andrew Birkic, president and CEO of Ford Australia.
As the official automotive partner of the Queensland Rugby League, Ford Australia will be actively involved in community engagement initiatives and fan activations to bring the excitement of rugby league closer to fans across the state. This will include the use of vehicles for QRL staff to use across the state.
Ford’s new relationship with the Queensland Rugby League signifies a shared commitment to driving innovation and excellence in both sports and automotive industries, and will grow in exposure and significance across the next four years.