Held at historic Soldier Field in Chicago, IL on November 5, 2016, the match marked the first time that two Tier 1 Rugby Nations faced off in the United States.
Along with the event’s title sponsor AIG, we utilised the unique platform to garner worldwide viewership for the fastest growing team sport in the United States. In addition to advertising within, AIG hosted multiple branded activations across Chicago, including a VR experience and interactive activations. Astellas also leveraged the event platform and joint marketing campaign to set a World Record for the most organ donor registrations at an event within an eight-hour period.
Citi Card sponsored the event’s official ticket pre-sale and Guinness sponsored the match’s Official FanFest, which included over 15,000 fans before kickoff. Additional sponsors of the match included Air New Zealand, Aer Lingus, Gatorade, Illinois Bone & Joint Institute, Jameson, McDonald’s, Vista Equity and Vodafone.
Ireland’s victory, 40-29, was its first against New Zealand in the team’s 111-year history, making the match an instant classic.
The friendly hosted 62,300 fans, an official sell out, and set a new attendance record for a rugby match played on US soil.
Ireland vs. New Zealand was broadcast by multiple television partners across the world including NBC Sports (USA), EIR Sport (IRE), BT Sport (GBR), and SKY TV (NZ).
The Match exceeded all goals in digital engagement, brand execution and awareness for all involved, from broadcast partners, to sponsors, to participants.
Was an increased brand engagement across televised locations in the USA, UK & NZ. An increase in local tourism and interest for international travel to Chicago whilst delivering impact for Astellas that increased their donor registration.
