New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and British petrochemical giant Ineos have reached a settlement over their sponsorship contract dispute.

Background on the Dispute

Ineos, which holds a stake in Manchester United, prematurely exited its sponsorship agreement with NZR, leading to legal action from the governing body. The deal, originally signed in 2021, designated Ineos as NZR’s performance partner from 2022 to 2027. The partnership included branding on the back of players’ shorts and the front of training jerseys for iconic teams like the All Blacks and Black Ferns.

In February, NZR alleged that Ineos failed to pay the first installment of the 2025 sponsorship fee, effectively withdrawing from the six-year agreement. Ineos cited financial pressures in the European chemicals industry, attributing its decision to high energy taxes, carbon taxes, and deindustrialization in the region.

Settlement and Next Steps

On March 31, 2025, both parties released a joint statement confirming a resolution.

“New Zealand Rugby and Ineos can confirm that a settlement has been reached between the two parties. Whilst the details remain confidential, both organizations are satisfied with the outcome and acknowledge a desire to now move forward.”

Despite the early exit, both sides have signaled a commitment to maintaining professional relations as NZR looks to secure new sponsorship opportunities ahead of the next Rugby World Cup cycle.

What’s Next for NZR?

With Ineos stepping away, NZR may seek new global partners to fill the sponsorship gap. The All Blacks remain one of the most marketable teams in world rugby, making them an attractive prospect for brands looking to gain visibility in the sport.

Stay tuned for further updates as NZR navigates its next steps in securing long-term commercial partnerships.