The deal builds on a relationship between the Coca-Cola Company and rugby's flagship tournament that dates back to 1995, when South Africa secured a historic victory on home soil in front of Nelson Mandela, and will see the firm making its Glacéau Smartwater and Powerade sports drinks available for the world's top 20 teams that will compete at next year's event.

Venues and fan zones will also feature the brand's soft drinks.

"We are delighted to be extending our long and successful partnership with Coca-Cola as official soft drink," Rugby World Cup Limited chairman Bernard Lapasset said.

"With rugby experiencing unprecedented growth around the world and Rugby World Cup playing a pivotal role in inspiring future fans and players we are delighted to be working with a brand that shares our passion for the sport and its character-building values."

The partnership was announced at an event in London, where Coca-Cola revealed former Ireland and British and Irish Lions star Brian O'Driscoll as its brand ambassador for next year's World Cup.

Coca-Cola's relationship with the Rugby World Cup dates back to 1995 when South Africa secured a historic victory on home soil in front of Nelson Mandela ©Getty Images


"I'm really excited to be working with Coca-Cola for Rugby World Cup 2015 and see this as an opportunity to bring the game to a wider audience," O'Driscoll, who staged a surprise skills session for local children, said.

"As a former professional sportsman, I'm a passionate believer in the importance of leading an active, healthy lifestyle and understanding the benefits of physical activity.

"I believe we can really harness the excitement of rugby in 2015 to inspire people to move more."

Paul Dwan, the general manager of the Coca-Cola team for Rugby World Cup 2015, welcomed the extension of the partnership between his brand and the tournament.

"Rugby World Cup 2015 looks set to be the biggest ever; we're delighted to be a part of it to celebrate the excitement and passion the tournament will generate," he said.

"The game enjoys fantastic support and we hope that through our sponsorship we can bring rugby to an even wider audience next year."

The Coca-Cola Company joins the likes of Heineken, Land Rover, Société Générale, DHL, Emirates, Gilbert, Canon and MasterCard as Rugby World Cup 2015 sponsors.

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