The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has announced a new strategic partnership to expand and extend its existing relationship with Marriott Hotels & Resorts for the next four years. The alliance sees Marriott Hotels & Resorts become the new title partner of the Marriott London Sevens and an Official Partner of England Rugby, making the brand a key supporter of the RFU and building on its existing presence at Twickenham Stadium, with the London Marriott Hotel Twickenham.

Following the success of the London Sevens 2011 event, which saw more than 100,000 people attend across the two day tournament, and with the game of Sevens continuing to grow on a global basis ahead of its inclusion in the 2016 Olympic Games, the agreement represents the commercial strength of both Sevens and the RFU.

The Marriott London Sevens 2012, as the event will now be named, promises to be even bigger and better than previous years with London playing host to the final leg of the HSBC Sevens World Series.

Sophie Goldschmidt, Chief Commercial Officer Rugby Football Union said, “We’re delighted to be expanding our relationship with Marriott Hotels & Resorts for the next four years.  It’s an exciting time for rugby in England, with the Marriott London Sevens in May, the 2015 Rugby World Cup and numerous other events in between. We look forward to working with Marriott to bring new opportunities to our fans and Marriott Hotels & Resorts guests.”

Osama Hirzalla, Vice President Brand Marketing and Ecommerce for Marriott International in Europe said, “We are thrilled to build on our existing relationship with the Rugby Football Union with this new strategic alliance. Already having a hotel within Twickenham Stadium itself, this new partnership cements Marriott’s support of England Rugby and gives exposure for our brand to a wider audience. The RFU and Marriott Hotels & Resorts are both brands that are defined by performance, excellence and passion, so this partnership is a perfect match.”

Marriott London Sevens Tickets: For the month of March, weekend tickets are available from £20. Visit www.rfu.com/london7s for event info and further details. Individual tickets start from £18 for adults and £5 for juniors.  A stay at the London Marriott Hotel Twickenham during the 12^th & 13^th May for the London Sevens is from £199 per room per night room only.  To book visit www.marriott.co.uk.