In a big boost for State of Origin, iconic Australian fuel brand Ampol has taken over from Holden as the naming rights partner of the series.
Ampol, which is re-launching having initially had its name retired in a merger with Caltex almost 25 years ago, has signed on to sponsor State of Origin until 2023, including the women's series from next year. The opportunity arose with Holden ceasing operations in Australia.
"We'e delighted Ampol has joined us as naming rights partner for Australia's biggest sporting rivalry, State of Origin," NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.
"This series always captures the interest and passion of sports fans and this year we will expand into Adelaide [for game one] for the first time.
"Ampol is an iconic brand in Australia, so many Australians grew up with Ampol in their neighbourhoods and remember the long history Ampol has with our game.
"This partnership will benefit the entire rugby league ecosystem. From grassroots participation through to our elite competition."
Matt Halliday, Ampol's CEO and managing director, said the association with State of Origin would help promote his brand's revitalisation.
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"As we transition our national retail network to Ampol over the next two years, this new partnership with the NRL will ignite new and old customer connections with our iconic brand," he said.
"State of Origin's position as the pinnacle of rugby league and one of the biggest events on the Australian sporting calendar also aligns with our own commitment to to return Ampol as Australia's number one fuel brand."
Ampol State of Origin will kick off on November 4 at Adelaide Oval. Tickets are on sale to the general public from 10am today at nrl.com/tickets.
