The agreement also includes support for The British & Irish Lions at the community level through the Lions Origin Clubs initiative, which recognises clubs that have contributed to the development of Lions players. Howden will also increase its investment in the Lions Women’s program, potentially paving the way for an inaugural Lions Women’s Tour.
The partnership underscores Howden’s commitment to sports and its expertise in providing insurance solutions to both amateur and professional sports organizations through its sport and entertainment division.
David Howden, founder and CEO of Howden, said of the partnership: “We have been heavily involved in community and professional sport for more than a decade through our sport and entertainment practice, and this partnership aligns us with a unique franchise in elite sport, one which harnesses the collective power of the home nations and the passion and imagination of rugby fans and non-rugby fans alike around the world.”
Ben Calveley, CEO of The British & Irish Lions, said the partnership comes at a time when The British & Irish Lions brand is thriving, and it will contribute to the growth of the game in the community, engage fans globally, and expand the digital offering. The Lions also continue their exploratory work towards a historic inaugural Lions Women’s Tour.
He commented: “Our brand has never been stronger, and we are thrilled to have the support of Howden as we continue to grow the game in the community, engage our fanbase in global markets, and expand our digital offering alongside our ongoing exploratory work in relation to a historic inaugural Lions Women’s Tour.”
This partnership follows Howden’s recent sponsorship of Ascot Racecourse for five years through its specialised equine insurance business. The collaboration with The British & Irish Lions further solidifies Howden’s presence and commitment in the sports industry.