RFL extends Specsavers partnership

The Rugby Football League, the governing body for rugby league in England, has renewed its partnership with opticians chain Specsavers.

The new deal will cover the 2018 rugby league season, which gets underway later this week.

Specsavers’ branding will continue to feature on the kits of all match officials in the top-tier Super League, the second-tier Championship and grassroots competitions.

Specsavers will also continue to support initiatives such as the ‘fifth official’ campaign, which provides young fans with the opportunity to walk out with the referees ahead of matches.

James Read, head of sport sponsorship at Specsavers, said: “Technological advancements in recent years have certainly helped umpires and referees, but we will always rely on their personal judgements too. At Specsavers we’re glad to do our bit, where we can, to help ensure that they get the best possible support to do their job. We are also proud to support such an engaging sport from the elite game to grassroots."

Specsavers sponsored the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, which took place in England, Wales, France and Ireland, and has supported the club game in England since 2014.