Vodafone has revealed as Lead Partner of the British & Irish Lions for the 2021 Tour of South Africa. Like no other team in the world of sport, the Lions have a unique ability to unite fans from across the UK & Ireland behind one iconic squad. The power of Vodafone’s network, now more than ever, unites and unlocks potential in us all, making the sponsorship the perfect pairing, bringing the UK and Ireland’s best mobile data network together with the best of the best in rugby.

Lucky Vodafone customers will also be eligible to enter competitions to win much-coveted tour tickets and merchandise giveaways through Vodafone’s VeryMe loyalty programme.

As Lead Partner, Vodafone’s logo will be displayed on the front of the Lions’ shirt, making Vodafone an integral part of the ‘Sea of Red’ that will sweep every ground and city it travels to. The sponsorship also includes the provision of communications equipment to keep everyone involved in the Tour connected and technical support for training and player performance.

Whether fans are enjoying the Tour at home or away, thanks to Vodafone and the Lions, they will be able to immerse themselves in the action through a dedicated app, interactive games, and plenty of exclusive content. Vodafone will be creating innovative fan experiences through experiential activations both at home and in South Africa.

Max Taylor, Commercial Director, Vodafone said: “Nothing in sport unites us quite like the Lions.

The team bonds nations that normally compete, unites families and friends and brings generations closer together. ​ At a time when connection, unity and community are more important than ever, the Lions 2021 Tour gives us a great opportunity to bring people together in a way that no other sporting event can. The build-up to this incredible touring event starts now. It’s time to unite the pride.”

Ben Calveley, Managing Director of the British & Irish Lions, added: “Today’s announcement represents two iconic brands coming together.​ Along with supporting Warren and the team, Vodafone will also help to enhance the experience of Lions supporters through the very best technology and innovation.

“The fans are a crucial aspect of any Lions tour and we will need to ensure they feel part of the team, to ignite their incredible support if we are to overcome the World Champions.

“In Vodafone, we have found a partner who shares our passion for connectivity, and we are delighted to have them on board to enhance the experience of the Lions fans across the world.”

Warren Gatland, head coach for the British & Irish Lions, commented: “I am excited to welcome aboard Vodafone as a team sponsor for the Tour next summer.

“The key to a successful Lions Tour is about players coming together quickly and staying united behind one common goal – to win a Test series against the World Champions in South Africa. I cannot think of a brand that knows more about bringing people together than Vodafone.

“I am sure they will play an important role in supporting the team on and off the pitch, as well as ensuring the Tour is a unique experience for all Lions supporters.”

The Lions partnership builds on Vodafone’s heritage in rugby, which includes existing partnerships with the IRFU and Wasps. Vodafone is the official communications partner to the Irish Women’s rugby team and has extended its partnership with the IRFU by becoming the official sponsor of the Women’s Interprovincial Competition.

The partnership is the most significant sponsorship Vodafone has embarked on in recent years and will be amplified through a multi-platform campaign using the hashtag #UniteThePride.

Full 2021 tour schedule:

Saturday 3 July: British & Irish Lions v DHL Stormers – Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town

Wednesday 7 July: British & Irish Lions v South Africa ‘Invitational’ – Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth

Saturday 10 July: British & Irish Lions v Cell C Sharks – Jonsson Kings Park, Durban

Wednesday 14 July: British & Irish Lions v South Africa ‘A’ Team – Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit

Saturday 17 July: British & Irish Lions v Vodacom Bulls – Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria

Saturday 24 July (first Test): Springboks v British & Irish Lions – FNB Stadium, Johannesburg

Saturday 31 July (second Test): Springboks v British & Irish Lions – Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town

Saturday 7 August (third Test): Springboks v British & Irish Lions – Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg