Ulster Rugby's iconic home ground, previously known as Kingspan Stadium since 2014, has officially been renamed Affidea Stadium following a significant long-term sponsorship agreement with the healthcare company Affidea. This change marks a pivotal moment in the history of Ulster Rugby, as the stadium transitions into a new era of development and community engagement.

A New Chapter for Ulster Rugby

Originally named Ravenhill, the stadium has been a cornerstone of rugby in Belfast for decades. The new partnership with Affidea is set to provide a robust foundation for investing in player development, state-of-the-art facilities, and enhancing the overall fan experience. Ulster Rugby's CEO, Hugh McCaughey, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "Together, we will continue to invest in elite and grassroots rugby, and we look forward to seeing the Affidea Stadium become a beacon for sport and community pride in Ulster."

The End of an Era with Kingspan

The stadium's previous naming rights holder, Kingspan, had been associated with the venue since 2014. However, their 11-year partnership concluded at the end of last month. The relationship with the construction firm had been under scrutiny due to its links to the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, which claimed 72 lives. Kingspan maintained that its products constituted only 5% of the insulation used in the tower and were implemented without their recommendation.

Looking Ahead

With the rebranding to Affidea Stadium, Ulster Rugby aims to strengthen its position as a leader in both professional and community rugby. The new sponsorship deal not only signifies a fresh start but also underscores the club's commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture in Northern Ireland. Fans and players alike can look forward to an enhanced stadium experience, with investments poised to elevate the venue as a hub for rugby excellence and community pride.