AIB extends All-Ireland League Sponsorship for further season

AIB has extended its sponsorship of the All-Ireland League for a further season, with a review to take place once a new league format has been agreed.

The deal gives the IRFU and the clubs time to agree a new format for the 2005/06 season.

“Until such time as agreement was reached as to the format of the league going forward, it was difficult for the bank to commit to any longer period than a one-year sponsoship deal, but once a new format is agreed between the IRFU and the clubs, the bank will then review the sponsorship going forward”, said AIB General Manager John Hickey.

Hickey said they would support the league for season 2004/05 at the same level as in previous years but their focus would shift to more direct support for the clubs.