Castle Double Malt named Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry

Castle Double Malt has been announced as the Official Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, marking a major new chapter in one of international sport’s most celebrated contests.

The announcement comes as the All Blacks prepare for their first full tour of South Africa in 30 years, adding even more significance to this year’s historic series.

Inbound SA attended the official launch at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium, where rugby legends, current Springboks, representatives from SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby, media and invited guests gathered to celebrate the partnership.

A partnership celebrating rugby’s greatest rivalry

Hosted by former Springbok Gcobani Bobo, the launch began with an energetic Impi Zulu warrior performance before exploring the history, significance and future of the Springboks and All Blacks rivalry.

Since their first Test in 1921, South Africa and New Zealand have played more than 100 Tests, with the two nations sharing seven men’s Rugby World Cup titles between them.

Over more than a century, the rivalry has become synonymous with excellence, resilience, sportsmanship and mutual respect.

Fans at the heart of the partnership

Castle Double Malt says the partnership is about bringing supporters closer to the action through a nationwide fan engagement programme.

Fans can look forward to:

• Official watch parties.
• Exclusive fan experiences.
• Nationwide activations celebrating the Springboks and All Blacks rivalry.

The campaign aims to celebrate both the intensity of the competition and the camaraderie that surrounds one of rugby’s biggest occasions.

SA Rugby welcomes the collaboration

SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer said the partnership reflects the values that have defined the rivalry for generations.

“Few rivalries in world sport have challenged generations of players quite like the Springboks and All Blacks. Castle Double Malt understands not only the intensity on the field but also the values that have defined this contest for more than a century. We’re delighted to welcome the brand as Title Partner.”

A defining milestone for Castle Double Malt

Vaughan Croeser, Vice President of Marketing at South African Breweries, described the agreement as an important moment for the brand.

“Becoming Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry is a defining milestone for Castle Double Malt. We’ve always believed extraordinary things happen when two greats come together, and there are few partnerships that embody that belief better. We’re proud to celebrate this legacy while creating unforgettable experiences for supporters.”

Respect beyond the final whistle

Former Springbok Gcobani Bobo reflected on the unique relationship shared by players from both nations.

“The rivalry extends beyond the final whistle. It’s about the friendships, respect and shared experiences between players who understand exactly what it takes to compete at this level.”

Former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick agreed.

“There was never a tougher challenge than facing the Springboks. Every Test demanded everything you had, and that’s what made the rivalry so special.”

Celebrating rugby’s biggest moments

As anticipation builds for the upcoming series, Castle Double Malt says it will celebrate the moments that define rugby at its toughest and smoothest, from world-class performances on the field to the camaraderie and gees shared by supporters off it.

The new title partnership marks another milestone in a rivalry that has captivated rugby fans for more than 100 years and promises to bring supporters even closer to the action throughout the historic tour.

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