British Airways launches new sports fund supporting grassroots rugby clubs

British Airways has launched a new fund to support more than 30 community rugby clubs over the next three years in continuation of its partnership with England Rugby.

The fund aims to welcome and grow participation in women’s rugby, with the announcement coming just ahead of a big summer for women’s sport across rugby, tennis, cricket and football

British Airways is kicking off the fund by selecting Plymouth Albion RFU and Plymstock Oaks as the first two clubs to receive the award, using the investment to improve social, event and outdoor facilities for players and the wider community

The flag carrier remains Official Airline Partner for the England Rugby teams, and continues to work with the best of British brands that champion originality throughout the customer experience

British Airways is celebrating its ongoing partnership with England Rugby by launching a new sports fund, the British Airways Spaces for All Fund, dedicated to supporting grassroots rugby clubs over the next three years. As the Official Airline Partner for the England Rugby teams, the flag carrier champions the growth of the sport from the ground up, with a particular focus on increasing uptake amongst women and girls. This is the airline’s first investment in sport and rugby at a grassroots level.

A joint initiative with England Rugby, the British Airways Spaces For All Fund will help local rugby clubs improve their social, event and outdoor facilities to welcome more people into rugby and create a welcoming environment that is more accessible and inclusive for women and girls. The number of registered female players has increased by 38% since the 2021/22 season, with England Rugby aiming to have 100,000 women and girls playing by 2027.

More than 30 clubs will benefit from the airline’s investment over the next three years, with Plymouth Albion RFC and Plymstock Oaks being the first two clubs to have been selected. Plymouth Albion RFC is set to renovate one of its social spaces to create a more welcoming environment for club events, player meals and off-pitch sessions. Plymstock Oaks will transform a space adjacent to the main pitch by upgrading existing facilities to improve access for players, families and visitors.