Carling Black Label has joined forces with SA Rugby through the Currie Cup yet again as the official title sponsor of the world’s oldest rugby tournament this year.
Black Label’s first introduction to the Currie Cup was back in the 2020–2021 tournament.
Mark Alexander, President of the South African Rugby Union, said: “We are delighted to welcome Carling Black Label back as the title sponsor of Currie Cup, which remains a crucial element within the South African rugby framework. It is truly gratifying to have Carling re-join us.”
Aligned with Africa’s biggest beer brand
Carling Black Label is Africa’s biggest beer brand. It has cemented itself as the brewer of “champion players” in the football fraternity and strives to do the same in rugby.
“The brand decided to sponsor the Currie Cup once again. As the brand tournament allows Carling Black Label to share its brand purpose with South Africans. And [it uses] rugby as a way to bring out the champion within SA men and be a part of helping champions rise. Which is what we have seen. Looking at all the Currie Cup alumni becoming South African rugby legends,” said Carling Black Label brand director Kerryn Greenleaf.
“That is what we, as Carling Black Label, stand for. To recognise and reward the champion within. And that is why we wanted to sponsor the Currie Cup again.”
The Premier Division of the Carling Currie Cup kicked off early this month. And it will reach its climax with the final on September 21.
In an exciting new feature, the competition will be staged over one-and-a-half rounds. This will be followed by two semi-finals and the grand finale.
Alexander has since wished all the teams competing at this year’s Currie Cup the best of luck.
“Best of luck to all the teams, including those in the First Division, who have already commenced their games. And a warm welcome back to Carling Black Label,” Alexander added.
The Carling Currie Cup format
The eight teams are divided into two pools of four each based on last year’s standings. Pool A will consist of the Cheetahs (No. 1 ranked last year), the Bulls (4), Western Province (5), and the Griffons (8).
Pool B sees the Sharks (ranked No. 2), Pumas (3), Lions (6) and Griquas (7) grouped. Teams will play home and away matches within their respective pools. Plus a single round of games against sides in the opposite pool.
The top four teams on the log will progress to the semi-finals on 14 September. With the two winners set to battle it out for the final.
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