England’s Rugby Football Union (RFU) has extended its front-of-shirt sponsorship with telecommunications company O2 for another five years.
Financial terms for this latest extension have not been disclosed, but the five-year renewal signed in 2020 was valued at £7.5 million (US$9.8 million) per year.
The spotlight on England rugby isn’t just about commercial deals—it’s about the players who bring the game to life. Recently, Henry Pollock and World Cup winner Ellie Kildunne were highlighted together, two very different but equally popular characters.
Ellie Kildunne spoke about her recent time with Pollock on her Rugby Rodeo podcast.:
“I actually met Henry Pollock the other day on an O2 appearance. He is just a really nice guy. I think he is very misunderstood.
However, sadly for Henry, she added: “He is defiantly younger brother vibes.”
She added:
“That’s just him and it really reminded me of what we stand for in the Red Roses and being able to express yourself.”
For Kildunne, moments like this showcase the evolution of England rugby:
“It showed what this new era of England rugby is in both the men’s and women’s.”
From sponsorship deals to the players themselves, England rugby is embracing a new era both on and off the field.
EDITORS PICKS:
Rugby’s Power Couples: The Top 20 Stars and Their Partners (Ranked 20-1)
Whether they’re lifting trophies, breaking records, or lighting up red carpets, these duos are redefining what it means to be a rugby partnership in 2025.
20. Ben White & Jodie Burridge
Scotland’s fiery scrum-half and British tennis ace Jodie bring the heat wherever they go — sporty, ambitious, and full of energy.
19. George Ford & Atdhetare Hoxha
England’s composed fly-half and his elegant fiancée keep things classic and classy. A quiet power couple in every sense.
18. Maro Itoje & Mimi Itoje
Understated, intelligent, and effortlessly cool. England’s cerebral lock and his stylish wife keep the spotlight where it belongs — on excellence.
17. Joe Marchant & Hollie Shearer
A rugby star meets football royalty’s daughter — the son-in-law Alan Shearer didn’t know he needed! A fun, media-friendly modern pair.
16. Marcus Smith & Beth Dolling
England’s flair player and his model-singer girlfriend bring fashion and flair to the rugby world. A young couple with superstar potential.
15. Simon Easterby & Sarra Elgan
Ireland’s forwards coach and the Welsh presenter are a rugby broadcasting dream team — brains, beauty, and a shared love of the game.
14. Finn Russell & Emma Canning
The Scottish playmaker and his multi-talented heptathlete partner are electric — charm, cheek, and competitiveness rolled into one.
13. Eben Etzebeth & Anlia van Rensburg
The Springbok enforcer and South African singer-songwriter embody raw passion and power — rugby grit meets glamour.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
Like this:
Like Loading…