The partnership between the Golden Lions Rugby Union and MTN South Africa came to an end as of Friday 13 December 2013, with the company opting not to renew their sponsorship of the GLRU teams.

After a fruitful three-year relationship, the telecommunications giant have chosen to realign their sponsorship portfolio and will no longer sponsor a rugby outfit.

GLRU Media Release

MTN SA Chief Marketing Officer Brian Gouldie commented on the decision and wished the Golden Lions Rugby Union well for the future.

“As with normal business practices, MTN underwent a review of its sponsorship portfolio, taking into consideration the alignment to the business objectives for the next cycle, and we have decided not to renew the sponsorship contract with the Golden Lions Rugby Union,” said Gouldie.

“MTN has had an exciting three-year partnership with the GLRU since 2011, during which time the ‘Pride of Johannesburg’ performed admirably, lifting the Currie Cup.

“We wish the GLRU all the best in the years ahead in the Super Rugby, Currie Cup and all other competitions.”

The GLRU is grateful for the support of MTN and, while it is always difficult to part with a title sponsor, the Union is currently engaging with other parties for support.

GLRU President Kevin de Klerk conveyed his appreciation to MTN and wished them every success for their future business ventures.

“We wish to thank MTN for their association with the GLRU over the past three years and wish them well for the future,” De Klerk said.

“We at the Lions believe that we possess a great capacity for brand building, alongside our sponsors, and feel that this certainly has been a most mutually beneficial relationship with MTN.

“Although we sincerely regret being unable to continue our sponsorship with MTN, this leaves the GLRU open for further discussions with additional sponsors, with whom we are currently engaging.”

GLRU CEO Manie Booysen reaffirmed the sentiments of De Klerk, expressing his gratitude to MTN.

“It is my belief that the Golden Lions developed into one of the strongest rugby brands in the country with the help of MTN and we are truly grateful for their support,” shared Booysen.

“It may take time to establish new sponsor relationships over the upcoming weeks and months, but we are confident we will be able to do this in 2014.”