No Return As England Football Kit Maker... Umbro Re-Renters Big Rugby Market As England Rugby Kit Maker

May 5, 2020

by Chris

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For a few seconds earlier today, some people in the football world thought that Umbro would be back as England's national team football supplier. However, a closer look revealed that Umbro will "only" become the new Official Technical Kit Partner of England Rugby from 1 September 2020. Umbro replaces Canterbury.

We are ready for rugby! Today we are excited to announce our new partnership with @EnglandRugby as the team's Official Technical Kit Partner, as of September 2020! Find out more and sign up for news now on https://t.co/xpsTDhslpq pic.twitter.com/dHuDsQOQXD
— Umbro UK (@UmbroUK) May 5, 2020

Whilst traditionally seen as a soccer brand, Umbro has a heritage in rugby union having previously supported each of the home nations, multiple clubs and the only British & Irish Lions team to win a series in New Zealand, in 1971.

Umbro To Become Official England Rugby Kit Partner

The new partnership covers the England Rugby men’s, women's, sevens and age grade national teams. The deal is worth UK£5 million annually, according to the Daily Mail.

Umbro managing director Anthony Little said: “The partnership between Umbro and England Rugby from September is a seminal chapter in our history. The first time the England rugby team runs out onto the pitch, wearing the double-diamond logo, will be a proud moment for us, as an English brand.”

“Modern rugby is demanding but our approach at Umbro has always been to make sure our kits are fit for purpose and we have been working tirelessly to ensure that we meet those demands and deliver a kit that will perform for England Rugby.”

Simon Massie-Taylor, chief commercial officer for England Rugby added: “We are delighted to be entering this new chapter with Umbro as Official Technical Kit Partner from September and welcome them into the England Rugby family.

"Umbro has a rich heritage supporting English sports and share our values in dedication to high performance and innovation. We look forward to unveiling the new kit later this year.”

Umbro England Rugby 2020 Gear

The first product Umbro designed for England Rugby got also leaked - it is not known if it is a kit or just a training jersey.

The Umbro England Rugby training top shows off a unique and modern design in white with a geometrical graphic pattern. The iconic Rose logo of the England national rugby union team sits on the left chest.