Twickenham to be renamed Allianz Stadium in a historic sponsorship agreement

Starting in September, Twickenham will be renamed as the Allianz Stadium following a long-term deal between the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and the insurance company.

This marks the first rebranding of the 82,000-seater stadium since its construction in 1907, with the RFU describing the agreement as "transformative" for the sport.

The inaugural match at Twickenham under its new name will feature the Red Roses facing New Zealand on September 14.

"We're really pleased to be expanding our partnership with Allianz, enabling further investment into the community and professional game," RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney said.

"This is an opportunity to celebrate our stadium's proud legacy while developing it for the future.

"This partnership will support us in moving the game in a direction which serves all rugby, from minis to the elites, from club coaches to our national coaches and everything in between.

"Over the coming years, the RFU and Allianz will work together to enhance visitor experiences and provide fans and the local community with the best possible match day and event experiences.

"As we head towards hosting the women's World Cup in 2025, it is entirely fitting that the first game to be played at the newly named Allianz Stadium will be the Red Roses versus New Zealand on 14 September."

It had been thought that the RFU may not need to follow in the footsteps of the Scottish, Welsh and Irish in handing over their stadium to a sponsor but the impact of Covid and the fact Twickenham still needs development has forced the RFU's hand.

Despite the differing responses to dropping the word Twickenham from the name completely, the RFU insists that the money that comes from this deal will benefit the game at all levels.