Rugby union: MBNA become principal partner of Sale Sharks

Jul 14 2011 by Paul Wheelock, Chester Chronicle

CHESTER FC shirt sponsors MBNA have joined forces with the biggest rugby union club in the north west.

The Chester-based credit card lending giants will become the principal partner of Aviva Premiership outfit Sale Sharks for the next three seasons.

The partnership will see the MBNA logo emblazoned on the front of Sale’s home, away and European shirts.

MBNA is a subsidiary of Bank of America – one of the largest financial institutions in the world.

Ian O’Doherty, Europe card executive for Bank of America, said: “As principal partner we will be much more than a club sponsor. We want to support the growth and success of the club on and off the field and maximise the opportunities this partnership offers both the club and our business.”

MBNA will continue its sponsorship of the main stand at the Sharks’ Edgeley Park home in Stockport, as well as maintaining its current support through the Aviva Premiership’s central partner programme and Tackling Numbers community scheme.

Sale chief executive Mick Hogan said: “It is tremendously exciting news that MBNA has agreed to become the principal partner of Sale Sharks.”