Macron and Tonga Rugby have announced a new partnership agreement that will see the Italian brand supply match kits and the full apparel range for the men’s and women’s national teams. The collaboration with the Pacific nation further strengthens Macron’s international leadership in the sportswear market and reinforces its position as a global benchmark in rugby for quality, technical excellence, style and garment customisation specifically developed for the world of rugby.
The ‘ʻIkale Tahi’ (Sea Eagles) are a national team with a proud and long-standing rugby tradition. The Tongan national side has been active for more than 100 years. In 1924, one year after the foundation of Tonga Rugby Union, the red-and-white team made its international debut with a victory over Fiji. Since the inception of the Rugby World Cup in 1987, Tonga have appeared in every edition except 1991 and will also compete in the 2027 tournament, where they have been drawn in Pool F alongside England, Wales and Zimbabwe.
Since 2006, Tonga Rugby has regularly competed in the Pacific Nations Cup, previously known as the Pacific Tri-Nations, a competition the Tongans won on three occasions: 1984, 1990 and 1994. Like many Pacific Rugby Nations, Tonga performs a traditional pre-match war dance, the Sipi Tau, before every game. One of the most memorable performances came during the 2003 Rugby World Cup in response to the famous All Blacks Haka.
The history, tradition and symbols of the Tongan national team will find their natural expression in the match kits and apparel range that Macron will develop for both players and supporters. Alongside the quality and technical performance of the materials, as well as the attention to detail, graphics and innovative design, the collection will also deliver a strong sustainability message. The Game Set will in fact be produced entirely in Eco Fabric, made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic.
“It is with great pleasure that we announce this prestigious partnership with Tonga Rugby,” said Gianluca Pavanello, CEO of Macron. “The Tongan national team holds an important place within the international rugby landscape, and we are excited to celebrate its history, tradition and values through exclusive match kits and apparel collections designed to create a strong emotional connection with both players and supporters, while accompanying the team towards next year’s major global competition.”
“Today marks a major milestone for Tongan rugby. We are extremely proud to announce this new strategic partnership with Macron, a brand that has become a global reference in the world of rugby. Macron represents not only excellence in design and sporting performance but also serves as the official supplier of the world’s biggest international competitions, including the Rugby World Cup” stated Aisea Aholelei, CEO Tonga rugby union. “This partnership reflects the growing ambition of Tonga Rugby and our commitment to providing our players, teams, and supporters with the highest standards in world rugby. Beyond the equipment itself, we share with Macron common values: passion, identity, respect, and dedication to our rugby community. Together, we aim to inspire the next generation of Tongan players and strengthen the presence of Pacific rugby on the international stage. We firmly believe this collaboration will open a new chapter for Tongan rugby and help build an even stronger future for our nation.”
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