Publications
Partners
Suzuki Auto South Africa is the new naming sponsor of the Griqualand West Rugby Union (GWRU), home of the Griquas.
The agreement between these two brands was signed at a gala dinner hosted by GWRU for Suzuki Auto in Kimberley on 1 March.
The team will now be known as the Suzuki Griquas and the stadium as the Suzuki Stadium, while the team will wear the new Suzuki-branded team jersey in the 2024 Currie Cup.
Says Teruo Katakawa, managing director of Suzuki Auto South Africa: “Just like the Griquas, the Suzuki brand started from humble beginnings and through passion, hard work, and continuous improvement, became a key player in the industry whilst remaining true to its core values and identity.
“This sponsorship allows us to embody this passion on the rugby field and bring the Suzuki brand front and centre to the sport that we all love and support so dearly.
“We have no doubt that the Suzuki Griquas will make us extremely proud and I want to assure you of the Suzuki team’s unwavering support on all levels throughout the sponsorship period.”
In response, Arni van Rooyen, CEO of the GWRU says: “We are proud to welcome Suzuki to our family.
“This partnership not only represents the next step in their journey from a small vehicle supplier to a top three brand in South Africa, but it also symbolises their commitment to South Africa and to supporting and developing its people.”
GWRU is one of South Africa’s oldest rugby unions, having officially formed in 1886.
Shortly after forming the Union, the Griquas hosted the first Currie Cup in 1892 and it has since won this coveted trophy five times.
Today, the Griqua team and their stadium are an important part of the city and Northern Cape’s economy.
The stadium is now part of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU), and it forms the centre of the city’s shopping, fitness, and academic precinct.
From this central hub, the Griquas run many social and sport development projects that supports the community and have, in recent years, delivered several first-class provincial rugby players.
The newly named Suzuki Stadium will also host the SPU’s men and women soccer and rugby teams, and is the hub of several road running and fun run events.
