New Zealand Rugby has initiated legal proceedings against Ineos, the British chemical giant owned by billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, after the company decided to terminate their sponsorship deal, which had three years remaining.

The agreement, established in 2022, allowed Ineos branding to be featured on the jerseys and apparel of several teams, including the All Blacks, the women’s national team, the New Zealand Maori team, and the New Zealand sevens teams. The contract was set to last until 2028.

On Tuesday, New Zealand Rugby announced that Ineos has not made the initial payment for the 2025 sponsorship, prompting the organization to take legal action.

Paul Stevens, the chief communications officer for New Zealand Rugby, expressed disappointment over Ineos’s breach of their agreement. He stated that the company’s failure to pay the necessary sponsorship fee, along with its decision to exit the contract prematurely, has left New Zealand Rugby with no alternative but to seek legal redress.

“As a result of Ineos’s intention to withdraw three years early, we are committed to safeguarding the interests of New Zealand Rugby and the broader rugby community,” said Stevens. “We have had to pursue legal action to secure our commercial rights.”

The sponsorship, valued at approximately $4.5 million annually, is a significant financial component for New Zealand Rugby. Despite Ineos’s departure, Stevens mentioned that the organization is actively exploring new commercial ventures and noted that global interest in the All Blacks and other teams remains robust.

Jim Ratcliffe not only holds a minority stake in Manchester United but is also known for sponsoring the British America’s Cup sailing syndicate and for supporting the Team Ineos professional cycling team.