By Lestyn
April 27 2004

Financial giants Zurich have been named as main sponsors of next years Lions tour. The company’s’ emblem will also be splashed across Lions shirts in New Zealand. Zurich who already sponsor the Premiership in England, along with significant sponsorship deals with both European competitions, have landed what many see as the biggest coup, as far as exposure is concerned in rugby.

"We are delighted to have Zurich on board for the tour to New Zealand," said Lions chairman and tour manager Bill Beaumont.

"They are a proactive supporter of the game at all levels and the support that Zurich are giving to the tour will have a huge effect both on and off the pitch and will help provide the platform to face the exciting rugby challenges that we anticipate encountering in New Zealand."

Zurich’s strategy director Walter Dobbin emphasised how proud his company are to be associated with the Lions.

"The Lions represents the best elements of the game of rugby: determination, integrity, teamwork and passion - It is this passion that Zurich share," said Dobbin.

"We are a committed sponsor and supporter of rugby and the Lions sponsorship is a natural extension of our current involvement in the domestic club game - the English and Celtic clubs will be where the majority of next year’s tourists will be selected from.

"We are looking forward to being involved in what promises to be a classic series in 2005."