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A world leader in match ball innovation and development in international rugby for more than a century, the UK-based firm will supply the match, training and replica balls for rugby's global showcase event.
"Gilbert is a brand that is synonymous with Rugby World Cup, having supplied balls for the tournament since 1995, and RWCL is delighted to be extending the relationship with a partner that has proven to be both a strong supporter of the tournament and the world leader in rugby ball performance," said RWCL Chairman Bernard Lapasset.
"The tender process was extremely competitive. The decision to award the contract over two tournaments is an exciting prospect for both RWCL and Gilbert, enabling promotion of the RWC brand over the next six years through marketing activation and sales."
With a little under two years to go until the opening match of the 2011 tournament, Gilbert and RWCL have unveiled the design of the ball that will be used by the world's finest players across all 48 matches in New Zealand.
Retaining the distinct RWC brand colors of blue and green, the innovative ball will have a distinctly New Zealand feel and replicas will be available to purchase via the official Rugby World Cup 2011 online store and via leading rugby retail outlets over the coming months.
