Emirates and World Rugby have renewed their long-standing relationship for another ten years, reaffirming one of the sport’s most durable commercial partnerships. Under the agreement, Emirates becomes World Rugby’s first-ever Platinum Partner and will remain Principal Partner of the Men’s and Women’s Rugby World Cups through 2035.

The airline will continue its role as Principal Partner for major tournaments in Australia in 2027 and 2029 and in the United States in 2031 and 2033, as well as for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2035. Emirates will retain pitch-side visibility at all Rugby World Cup events and maintain branding across World Rugby’s digital channels and promotional materials.

Match officials at all international competitions will continue to be designated “Emirates World Rugby Match Officials” and wear the airline’s “fly better” kit. Emirates’ logo will remain visible in Television Match Official booths during Rugby World Cup tournaments.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said the decade-long extension reflects the company’s commitment to rugby and its global fan base. World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin described the airline as central to the sport’s international growth since their collaboration began in 2007.

The renewed agreement also expands cooperation on community initiatives, including grassroots development in markets served by the airline.

Emirates’ association with rugby dates to 1987 and includes sponsorship of multiple Rugby World Cups, the Emirates Dubai Sevens and Cape Town Sevens, and support for referees at international matches. The airline continues to invest in women’s rugby as a principal partner of upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cups.

Beyond rugby, Emirates maintains a wide-ranging global sports portfolio spanning football, tennis, cricket, golf, sailing, basketball and horse racing, alongside community-based programmes at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira

Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.