The British & Irish Lions and South Africa Rugby have announced British Airways as the Global Airline Partner of the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series.
The airline will fly the 37-man Lions squad to South Africa on Sunday 27th June to kick off the Tour, which will see the representative squad play eight games – including the three test series against the Springboks.
Following The Vodafone Lions 1888 Cup clash against Japan at BT Murrayfield Stadium on Saturday 26th June, the Lions will board a British Airways charter flight from Edinburgh landing in Johannesburg to begin preparations for the first game of the Tour which starts on Saturday 3rd July.
Both teams will then travel around South Africa during the Series on board franchise partner of British Airways, and oneworld Alliance member, Comair.
British Airways’ partnership of the Castle Lager Lions Series adds to its current rugby sponsorship portfolio, where it is the Principal Partner to Twickenham Stadium as well as the Official Airline Partner of England Rugby.
“We are delighted to be flying with British Airways for the 2021 Castle Lager Lions Series,” said Ben Calveley, Managing Director, The British & Irish Lions.
“We know the squad and management will receive a warm welcome from British Airways staff and enjoy a safe, comfortable journey to South Africa, landing in Johannesburg ready to take on the world champions.”
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, added: “We are honoured to be flying The British & Irish Lions to South Africa ahead of their tour. After a difficult year, we look forward to uniting the nation through sport and cheering them on.
“From everyone at British Airways, we wish them the best of luck and hope to carry them home as champions.”
Meanwhile, The Lions and SA Rugby have also appointed Whisper Cymru, part of the Whisper Group, as Production Partner for the Tour.
The production agency will be responsible for providing ‘ambitious, entertaining and…