Lloyds Becomes Official Banking Partner of England Rugby in Landmark Deal

The Rugby Football Union has announced a major new partnership with Lloyds, bringing together support for England’s national teams with a long-term commitment to grassroots rugby.

As the new Official Banking Partner of England Rugby, Lloyds will invest in initiatives designed to strengthen community clubs, improve facilities and introduce tens of thousands of young people to the game.

The multi-year agreement will also see the bank support digital transformation projects across English rugby.

Lloyds’ Black Horse logo will appear on the back of the England Rugby shirts and anthem jackets worn by the men’s and women’s senior teams.

Supporting Rugby From the Grassroots Up

While the partnership gives Lloyds a prominent presence at international level, both organisations have placed grassroots rugby at the centre of their plans.

The RFU and Lloyds will develop dedicated participation programmes aimed at improving the long-term sustainability of community clubs and helping more people experience rugby.

Further information about the participation initiatives, club funding programmes and digital projects is expected to be announced during 2027.

Bill Sweeney, RFU CEO, said the agreement represents an important moment for rugby in England.

“Together, we have a shared ambition to grow the game from the grassroots up, creating more opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to play, enjoy and be part of rugby.

“What makes this relationship particularly exciting is its potential to make a real difference across every level of the game, from local clubs to our England teams.”

Lloyds is the UK’s largest digital bank, serving more than 28 million customers and one million business relationships.

Suresh Balaji, Chief Marketing Officer at Lloyds, said:

“Rugby is at the heart of communities across Britain, bringing people together from grassroots clubs to the international game. As a bank rooted in those same communities, we’re proud to partner with the RFU to help strengthen rugby at every level.

“By championing rugby, we’re championing the ambitions of the people and businesses that help our communities thrive, right across the country.”

Building Stronger Foundations

England captain Maro Itoje highlighted the role community clubs, coaches and volunteers played in the early stages of his rugby journey.

“Some of my earliest memories of rugby come from the people I met through the game – my coaches, my teammates I grew up alongside and the volunteers who gave their time every week.

“What excites me about this partnership is Lloyds’ commitment to the whole game; to strengthen those foundations, welcome more people into rugby and help our incredible sport fulfil its potential.”

Red Roses star Ellie Kildunne also welcomed the focus on supporting rugby at community level.

“The strength of English rugby comes from the people who volunteer their time, support their clubs and help young players develop a love for the game.

“Knowing that this partnership will invest in those foundations, while also helping the game grow and reach new audiences, makes it an exciting step forward for everyone involved in rugby.”

For grassroots clubs, the most important details will come when the participation and funding programmes are revealed in 2027. FYB will share further information, including how clubs can access any available support, as soon as it is announced.