By Nick Butler

World Rugby chief executive Brett Gosper (left) with Rokus van Iperen, President of Canon Europe, Middle East, Africa ©Eddie Keogh/Canon ExplorerImaging solutions giants Canon have become the latest official sponsor of the England 2015 Rugby World Cup, it has been announced. 


During the sport's showpiece event, the Japanese-based company will undertake a range of activities, including providing all print and copying solutions used by the tournament organisers.

They will also work in partnership with Rugby World Cup Limited to deliver a range of image-related initiatives in order to "enhance fan experience during what promises to be the best-connected and most engaged Rugby World Cup to date".

It will be the first time Canon has sponsored a event, further underscoring the strength and appeal of the Rugby World Cup brand in the global sponsorship marketplace, it is claimed, particularly with the tournament due to take place in Japan in 2019. 

"We are delighted to be welcoming Canon to the Rugby World Cup family as an Official Sponsor for the first time," said World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset.

"This exciting deal with a global leader in imaging represents another exciting boost for Rugby World Cup as we look forward to what promises to be a very special and record-breaking England 2015 tournament."

Canon is the latest addition to a Rugby World Cup that World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset has predicted will be "record-breaking" ©Getty ImagesCanon is the latest addition to a Rugby World Cup that World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset has predicted will be "record-breaking" ©Getty Images




As well as their specific roles, the Canon Professional Services team will be on site throughout the tournament - due to take place from September 18 to October 31 - to share their "imaging expertise" and help professional photographers.

They will also provide accredited professional photographers with advice, essential maintenance services and equipment loans, as well as help with minor repairs.

James Leipnik, chief of communication, Canon Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: "We are thrilled to extend our long history of involvement in the world's best sporting events by supporting Rugby World Cup for the first time.

"Images play a vital role in bringing the emotions and action of global sports to fans that are not able to experience the events in person."

"Our participation presents us with exciting opportunities to support professional photographers and fans with our imaging expertise, as they capture and share world class rugby moments throughout the tournament."

Canon join an already extensive list of commercial sponsors for England 2015, also consisting of worldwide partners Heineken, Land Rover, Société Générale, DHL, Emirates and MasterCard.

Gilbert will also act as Official Ball Supplier, Canterbury of New Zealand as Official Sportswear Supplier, Clifford Chance as Official Law Firm, EY as Business Advisor and Sportfolio as Master Licensee.

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