Ford Australia to drive QRL and Maroons forward

Queensland Rugby League is thrilled to announce Ford Australia as its official automotive partner for the next four years.

In a landmark partnership for the QRL, the award-winning motor vehicle manufacturer will be backing the Queensland Maroons and Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons State of Origin teams.

In addition to driving the men’s and women’s Origin programs, Ford Australia is the official membership partner of the QRL, as well as presenting partner of Country Week fixtures to be played throughout regional and rural Queensland.

Ford’s sponsorship signifies its commitment to supporting grassroots rugby league and community engagement across Queensland.

The new partnership was launched today on the Gold Coast, where the Maroons teams are preparing for crucial State of Origin games.

Queensland Rugby League chief executive officer Ben Ikin said "we are delighted to have Ford Australia join the Queensland Rugby League family".

“The Ford partnership will help our Maroons remain a force in the State of Origin arena," Ikin said.

“Our Maroons players are renowned for toughness on the field, and this trademark has also been a feature of Ford’s vehicles and business for many years.

“I’m not one to talk up rival codes, but it’s hard not to respect Ford Australia’s partnership with the Geelong Cats, which will reach the 100 year milestone by 2025.

“Let’s hope today’s announcement is the start of something just as special.”

Ford Australia president and chief executive officer Andrew Birkic today celebrated the announcement that sees the QRL partnership join Ford’s suite of sporting sponsorships across the AFL, basketball and motorsport.

“At Ford, we believe in the power of sport to unite communities and drive positive change,” Birkic said.

“Partnering with the Queensland Rugby League allows us to engage with fans at a grassroots level, while supporting the growth of rugby league in Queensland.

“We are excited to embark on this journey with the QRL and we are very proud to join the team.”

As the official automotive partner of the QRL, Ford Australia will be actively involved in community engagement initiatives and fan activations to bring the excitement of rugby league closer to fans across the state. This will include the use of vehicles for QRL staff to use across the state.