Twickenham Stadium to be renamed

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has announced that Twickenham Stadium will be renamed Allianz Stadium starting September, as part of a sponsorship deal worth over £100 million. Chief executive Bill Sweeney defended the decision, stating it aims to secure the stadium's future and improve fan experiences while also investing in grassroots rugby. Allianz will contribute £10 million annually for the next decade, and the partnership includes plans to support community rugby through an Allianz Future Fund. The change has sparked controversy among traditionalists, with some viewing it as an 'almighty blow' to the stadium's historical identity. The first match under the new name will feature the England women's rugby team against New Zealand on September 14, coinciding with the venue's hosting of the 2025 Women's World Cup final. This renaming marks a significant shift as Twickenham becomes the first major national sports venue in England to adopt a corporate sponsor, while Wembley and Lord's remain unchanged for now.