Suntory becomes Official Soft Drink Supplier of Rugby World Cup 2019TM in Japan

Suntory Holdings Limited has signed and become Official Soft Drink Supplier of Rugby World Cup 2019^TM in Japan, which will be held in 12 Japanese cities from September 20 through November 2.

Suntory established a rugby club (now Suntory Sungoliath) in 1980 and has been a member of the Top League since its establishment, contributing to the development of rugby in Japan. We look forward to participating in Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan as Official Soft Drink Supplier, joining with the players, officials and fans to make the tournament a success.

● Comment from Bill Beaumont, World Rugby Chairman:
We are delighted to welcome Suntory Holdings Limited as the official soft drinks supplier for Rugby World Cup 2019. The appointment of another major brand to the tournament commercial family will further broaden the reach and profile of what is shaping-up to be the most popular Rugby World Cup ever with record ticket demand and the biggest-ever broadcast and digital media footprint

● Comment from Nobutada Saji, Representative Director, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer of Suntory Holdings Limited
I am delighted that we will have the opportunity to participate in Rugby World Cup 2019, the first event of its kind to be held in Asia, as Official Soft Drink Supplier. Our rugby club, Suntory Sungoliath, has contributed to the enhancement and development of rugby in Japan, winning the Japan Championship eight times. We have also been able to participate actively in the spread of rugby and in nurturing the next generation, as well in social contribution through sports such as rugby classes offered in earthquake-hit areas (Tohoku and Kumamoto) as support toward recovery. We intend to continue our contributions to the development of rugby in Japan and the future of the world of sports.

● Rugby World Cup
This tournament is held once every four years to determine the rugby world champion. The 2019 Japan tournament will be the 9th World Cup and the first to be held in Asia. The top 20 teams from around the world will compete in 48 matches held in 12 cities.