British Airways Celebrates Ongoing Partnership With England Rugby By Launching New Sports Fund Supporting Grassroots Rugby Clubs

BA Launches Fund for Grassroots Rugby Clubs

British Airways is commemorating its ongoing collaboration with England Rugby by introducing a new initiative, the British Airways Spaces for All Fund, aimed at aiding grassroots rugby clubs over the next three years. As the Official Airline Partner for the England Rugby teams, the flag carrier promotes the sport's development from the ground up, particularly encouraging participation among women and girls. This marks the airline’s inaugural investment in grassroots sport and rugby.

In collaboration with England Rugby, the British Airways Spaces For All Fund aims to enhance local rugby clubs by improving their social, event, and outdoor facilities. This initiative seeks to welcome more individuals into rugby, fostering a more accessible and inclusive environment for women and girls. Since the 2021/22 season, the registered female player count has risen by 38%, with England Rugby targeting 100,000 women and girls participating by 2027.

Over the next three years, more than 30 clubs will reap the benefits of the airline’s investment, with Plymouth Albion RFC and Plymstock Oaks as the initial selections. Plymouth Albion RFC plans to refurbish one of its social areas to foster a more inviting atmosphere for club events, player meals, and off-pitch gatherings. Meanwhile, Plymstock Oaks aims to enhance a space next to the main pitch by modernizing existing facilities to serve players, families, and visitors better.

Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, said: “We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with England Rugby over the past seven years, and the launch of our new sports fund marks an exciting new chapter.

“We know rugby is more than just a game, it’s a sport with deep British roots that brings people together through community, spirit and tradition. Through the British Airways Spaces For All Fund, we’re proud to support local clubs at the heart of communities and drive positive change for players, volunteers and fans alike. As a British Original, we’re passionate about championing uniqueness and originality in all forms and look forward to what’s in store this year.”

Alex Teasdale, Executive Director of Women's Game at England Rugby, said: “We're delighted to partner with British Airways, who understand the things that really matter to our sport. The creation and launch of the British Airways Spaces for All Fund is something that will help community rugby clubs to keep moving the dial and offer enhanced experiences to all of their members. If anyone knows how to offer a warm and welcoming experience, it’s British Airways, and so we’re really looking forward to working with them and our clubs to make sure women and girls get the best possible experience.”

The new fund's announcement precedes a bustling summer of sports, featuring some of the top women’s sports athletes performing on the global stage in rugby, tennis, cricket, and football. British Airways remains the Official Airline Partner, flying the England Men’s and Red Roses teams worldwide while supporting them on and off the pitch.