Optimum Nutrition, the world’s number one sports nutrition brand, has announced a landmark partnership with the IRFU, becoming the Official Performance Nutrition Partner of Irish Rugby.
The collaboration underscores Optimum Nutrition’s commitment to fuelling elite athletic performance and deepens its connection to Irish rugby, with the partnership extending across all IRFU teams — including the national men’s and women’s squads.
Through the new alliance, Optimum Nutrition will provide tailored nutritional support and expertise to players at every level of Irish Rugby. The partnership will see athletes benefit from high-quality products, including the brand’s Elite Series range, to enhance training, performance, and recovery throughout the competitive season.
The launch has been led by long-time Optimum Nutrition ambassador and Ireland international Hugo Keenan, representing the men’s game. At the same time, Ireland Women’s back-rower Erin King joins as a new ambassador to support the partnership across the women’s programme.
To mark the announcement, Optimum Nutrition has been giving supporters the chance to win tickets to the upcoming Quilter Nations Series fixtures in Dublin this November, with full details shared via the brand’s social channels.
Beyond the elite setup, the partnership will aim to connect with the wider public, highlighting the critical role nutrition plays in achieving fitness goals both on and off the pitch. The initiative will encourage people to maximise their potential by striking the right balance between training, nutrition, and recovery.
“We’re very proud to team up with the IRFU – an organisation that shares our dedication to fuelling performance,” said Hugh McGuire, CEO of Glanbia, the Irish company behind Optimum Nutrition.
“As an Irish company behind the world’s No.1 sports nutrition brand, we believe in the power of nutrition to unlock potential in everyone. This partnership builds on two decades of supporting rugby in Ireland and reflects our commitment to helping athletes perform at their best.”
“We’re delighted to continue our collaboration with Hugo Keenan and to warmly welcome Erin King to our team for this partnership launch. Together with the IRFU, we’ll work to support and fuel athletes to perform at the highest level, while also helping consumers understand the benefits of Optimum Nutrition products for achieving both elite performance and everyday fitness, health, and nutrition goals.”
IRFU Commercial and Marketing Committee Chairperson Billy Murphy said the agreement reflects shared values between the two organisations.
“We are delighted to welcome Optimum Nutrition into the Irish Rugby family,” he said.
“Glanbia’s commitment to excellence and product quality aligns fully with our dedication to providing our athletes with the best support available. This partnership will be instrumental in supporting players’ performance and recovery, and we are particularly keen on the opportunity it presents to promote the importance of nutrition and performance principles within the broader rugby community and beyond.”
Image Credit: IRFU and Inpho.ie
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