Bookmaker to become Super League title sponsor
BOOKMAKER Betfred has been announced as the title partner of Rugby League’s elite club competition for the next three years.
The company will have naming rights to the Betfred Super League in its 50th year of trading and will be showcased at grounds across the country in front of more than two million spectators each year.
The brand will also benefit from featuring across TV and radio through Super League partners Sky Sports, BBC TV, BBC 5Live Radio and talkSPORT. Betfred replaces First Utility as the title sponsors, and the deal means that betting rival Ladbrokes’ sponsorship of the Challenge Cup competition for the last three years will come to an end.
The deal, which will begin next season, will complement Betfred’s other partnerships which include being UK horseracing’s biggest sponsor and their current sponsorship of the Betfred World Snooker Championships.
Betfred boss Fred Done, said: “Next year will be Betfred’s 50th birthday and what better way to celebrate than by becoming title sponsor of the Betfred Super League!
“I am delighted to sign such a high profile deal and, having met with Nigel Wood and his team I truly believe that we are a perfect fit for Super League where we will hope to match the real passion displayed by the fans, players, media partners and everyone involved throughout the Rugby League.”
Nigel Wood, Super League chief executive, said: “Building on increased financial investment from the previous title sponsor, Betfred is the latest major company to recognise the advantages of associating their brand with Rugby League and shows the strength of our sport in the commercial market. I’m sure this new exciting partnership will bring great benefits to both parties.
“I have met with owner Fred Done, who is passionate about Rugby League and we look forward to working closely with him, everyone at Betfred and our member clubs to continue to increase the visibility of our sport over the next three years.”
Since brothers Fred and Peter Done opened their first store in Salford in 1967, Betfred has grown to become the world’s largest independent bookmaker, with over 1,300 stores nationwide and head offices in Birchwood, Warrington.
