Specialist business insurer QBE has announced its sponsorship of the British & Irish Lions for the 2017 tour of New Zealand.

As a Principal Partner, QBE will join an elite global group of sponsors in supporting the Lions as they prepare to do battle in a series of matches against New Zealand's finest, culminating in three test matches against the All Blacks.

The alignment with the British & Irish Lions continues QBE's partnership with rugby internationally which currently includes sponsorship of England Rugby, North Harbour Rugby and a collaboration with La Unión Argentina de Rugby.

John Neal, QBE Insurance Group Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are delighted to be chosen as a Principal Partner of the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand. The Lions represents perhaps the ultimate example of 'all for one and one for all' teamwork. Every four years, the finest players from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales come together to challenge the very best teams from the southern hemisphere.

"Perhaps even more important than the undoubted individual skills of the players, two factors are critical to the Lions' success - inspirational leadership and excellent teamwork.

"The challenges faced and ultimately the rewards achieved closely mirror our own business. Our customers expect a one-team approach, working with us in close and enduring partnerships. By using our global footprint, along with our local knowledge, we can give them the confidence to achieve their ambitions".

British & Irish Lions COO, Charlie McEwen, said: "With their long history of supporting rugby, we are delighted QBE have joined the British & Irish Lions as a Principal Partner.

"As one of the world's leading international insurers, QBE's ability to look at managing and mitigating risk from every possible angle means they understand how important it is for the Lions to build a strong backroom team to support the players on the field. The coaches, analysts, strength & conditioning, medical, logistics, all the administrative teams and our partners come together with a common goal of uniting as one to ensure our players are best placed to meet the challenges in New Zealand.

"We are looking forward to working with QBE and their support for the British & Irish Lions and our 'team behind the team'".

Image credit: 2005 British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand - author Shudde - source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kiwi/ Kiwi Flickr