Gregor Paul: How NZ Rugby reached settlement with departing sponsor

Ineos had naming rights to the back of the All Blacks shorts and training kit, but it refused to pay the first instalment due for 2025 – believed to be about $10m – and also notified NZR it was terminating the sponsorship.The early termination meant NZR was going to not only lose $21m of income this year, but potentially face hefty legal fees by going through the courts in its efforts to force Ineos to make some kind of compensation payment for the early termination.In a statement, NZR said: “New Zealand Rugby and Ineos can confirm that a settlement has been reached between the two parties.“Whilst the details remain confidential, both organisations are satisfied with the outcome and acknowledge a desire to now move forward.”AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.It is believed Ineos has paid what it owed for 2025, and offered a small additional payment on top, and means NZR’s financial position has been greatly improved.If the national body secures a new sponsor for the back of its shorts an...