Rugby Sponsorship sportsbiz

The British & Irish Lions Signs British Airways As Global Airline Partner

June 15, 2021

The British & Irish Lions and SA Rugby have signed British Airways as the Global Airline Partner of the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series. 

As the Global Airline Partner, British Airways will fly the 37-man Lions squad to South Africa on Sunday 27 June to kick off the eagerly awaited Lions Tour.

The Lions arrival in Johannesburg sees the best players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales embarking on an eight-game Tour of South Africa, including three Tests against World Champions, the Springboks. 

Following The Vodafone Lions 1888 Cup clash against Japan at BT Murrayfield Stadium on Saturday 26 June (kick off 3pm), the Lions will board a British Airways charter flight from Edinburgh landing in Johannesburg to begin preparations for the first game of the Tour which starts on Saturday 3 July.  

The Lions and Springboks will travel around South Africa during the Series onboard franchise partner of British Airways, and oneworld Alliance member, Comair.

Ben Calveley, Managing Director for The British & Irish Lions, said: “We are delighted to be flying with British Airways for the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series. We know the squad and management will receive a warm welcome from British Airways staff and enjoy a safe, comfortable journey to South Africa, landing in Johannesburg ready to take on the world champions.”

Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, said:  “We are honoured to be flying The British & Irish Lions to South Africa ahead of their tour. After a difficult year, we look forward to uniting the nation through sport and cheering them on. From everyone at British Airways, we wish them the best of luck and hope to carry them home as champions.”

Rugby Sponsorship sportsbiz