The UK’s National Lottery has entered a wide-ranging partnership with the Rugby League World Cup 2021 (RLWC2021), which will take place in England later this year.
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The agreement will see the National Lottery serve as an official partner of the tournament, as well as of the RLWC2021 CreatedBy capital grants programme, a social impact initiative.
Delivered in partnership with government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and Sport England, the programme will focus on improving the environments where rugby league is played by investing in new facilities and equipment.
The deal will also grant the National Lottery extensive rights including branding at all 61 matches during the tournament, tickets, player appearances, social media assets, unique experiences and becoming the sponsor of the tournament’s volunteer workforce.
Funds for the initiative will come from a National Lottery promotional fund, and not money allocated for National Lottery Good Causes or by its operator Camelot.
RLWC2021 will take place in England from 23 October to 27 November.
“Local communities have faced significant challenges during the pandemic, so the opportunity to deliver good news and look to the horizon is uplifting,” RLWC2021 chief executive Jon Dutton said.
“The ability to make a difference to people’s lives as well as supporting the future of grassroots Rugby League has always remained our mission, and this partnership further enhances our promise to put people, place and civic pride at the very heart of the event.”
Camelot chief executive Nigel Railton added: “I am proud that the National Lottery is able to play such a key role in supporting the Rugby League World Cup 2021 and the wider community after such a tough year – while, at the same time, being able to give back to National Lottery players who make all of this possible.”
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston also welcomed the deal, saying: “This partnership will provide significant long-term support to the sport including infrastructure and equipment for rugby league loving communities up and down the country.”
