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As rugby celebrates its 100th year in Tonga in August 2023, and ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Irish financial technology and business services company - Fexco Group – and its currency brand, No1 Currency are expanding a commitment to the development of rugby through a new corporate sponsorship deal with the Tongan national rugby union.

Recognising the funding challenges faced by Tonga rugby, Fexco's sponsorship will provide crucial support for the team's travel to France, as well as supplying necessary kits and training materials for their participation in the Rugby World Cup and help pay the salaries of the Tongan team at the rugby world cup.

The partnership reinforces both Fexco and No1 Currency's commitment to nurturing rugby at a grassroots level, and the support for Tonga rugby in its preparations for the World Cup, aligns with the Group's four-decade objective of making a positive impact in the communities where it operates.

In addition to the World Cup support, Fexco will also assist Tonga in their Oceania Rugby Men's Championship campaign and associated friendly games. Through the long-term support of rugby which is culturally important to Tonga, and the Pacific Islands, Fexco aims to make the game more accessible to anyone who wants to play and bring communities together.

As part of the sponsorship agreement, Fexco will proudly display its logo, representing the Fexco Group, on the back of the Tonga Rugby kit's shoulders. Furthermore, its renowned currency exchange brand, No1 Currency, will be prominently featured across the rear of the shorts.

Neil Hosty, Fexco Chief Executive notes "Fexco is pleased to announce its sponsorship of the Tongan national rugby team, which expands on our ongoing support for rugby in the Pacific Islands. For over 40 years now, the Group has been committed to making a positive impact in its communities, through the funding of local sports clubs and other local organisations.

“We are proud to extend this commitment to the Kingdom of Tonga from the Kingdom of Kerry in Ireland. We hope that this sponsorship will mark the expansion of its relationship with Tongan rugby that will see Fexco support the game from grassroots right up to professional level. We also look forward to launching similar initiatives across other locations in the region."

Tongan rugby Chief EXecutive, Peter Harding, welcomed the announcement and shared "Rugby is a huge part of the Tongan culture, drawing immense support from communities across the islands. However, we have faced challenges in securing funding. That is why we are thrilled to have Fexco onboard as our sponsors for the 2023/24 season.

“This sponsorship will play a crucial role in financing our preparations for the upcoming Rugby World Cup and establishing development structures to foster the game's expansion throughout the country, benefiting players from all levels of our society."

Headquartered in Killorglin, Co. Kerry, Fexco operates in 29 countries, including Tonga and the wider Pacific region, where it has maintained a prominent presence for over two decades. Fexco specialises in money transfer, currency exchange, and international payment services, offering its expertise to governments, non-profit organisations, businesses, and individuals through its No1 Currency brand.

Rugby occupies a vital role in Tongan culture as the national sport, commanding a devoted and passionate fan base. Nevertheless, due to the country's small population and competition from neighbouring Pacific nations, the sport has encountered financial hurdles at both national and community levels.

Rugby was introduced to Tonga in the early 20th century by sailors and missionaries, leading to the establishment of the Tonga Rugby Football Union in late 1923. Notably, August 4th, 2023  commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first rugby game played on Tongan soil. Tonga has achieved remarkable victories in Rugby World Cup history, including their unexpected 19–14 win over France in the 2011 World Cup. Additionally, on November 24, 2012, Tonga secured their first victory over a traditional rugby power on a European pitch with a 21–15 win against Scotland at Pittodrie Stadium.

As the last constitutional monarchy among Pacific Island countries, the Kingdom of Tonga holds a unique place in the region.

Fexco's Presence in South Pacific
For close to two decades, Fexco has been dedicated to supporting communities and providing sponsorship that drives empowerment, innovation, and inclusive growth on a global scale. By investing in the communities, it serves, Fexco creates an environment where businesses and individuals can thrive together.

This announcement further extends Fexco's commitment to community support and sponsorship initiatives in the Pacific region. Alongside backing Tonga Rugby, Fexco/No1 Currency will also undertake the role of the official foreign exchange provider for the Pacific Games, a continental multi-sport event that occurs every four years, bringing together athletes from islands spanning the Central and South Pacific Ocean. These games will take place scheduled in November 2023 and will be hosted in the Solomon Islands.

To find out more on Fexco visit www.fexco.com 

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