United Rugby Championship welcomes Engen as Official Partner in South Africa

The United Rugby Championship (URC) is proud to announce Engen, part of the Vivo Energy Group, as the Official Fuel Partner of the URC in South Africa. The collaboration marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for rugby across the region, bringing together two brands united by passion, performance and community.

This partnership sees Engen align with one of the world’s most competitive and culturally diverse rugby leagues - a competition that brings together 16 elite teams from South Africa, Ireland, Wales, Scotland and Italy. Through this collaboration, Engen will play a key role in enhancing matchday experiences, supporting fan engagement and driving initiatives that celebrate rugby’s spirit both on and off the field.

Martin Anayi, CEO of the United Rugby Championship, commented: “Engen’s partnership with the BKT United Rugby Championship represents an exciting moment for rugby in South Africa and beyond. South African teams have consistently demonstrated world-class skill, resilience, and a competitive edge that strengthens our league at every level.

“Paired with one of the most passionate fan bases in global rugby, this partnership gives us an incredible opportunity to elevate the matchday experience, inspire communities and showcase the power of rugby to connect people. Together with Engen, we aim to grow the game, support the next generation of players and reinforce South Africa’s vital role at the heart of the BKT URC’s journey.”

As part of the partnership, Engen’s branding will feature across South Africa-based URC matches, digital platforms, and community activations. Together, the URC and Engen will collaborate on programmes that focus on youth development, grassroots engagement and inclusivity - all while enhancing the energy and excitement that define the URC matchday experience.

George Roberts, CEO of Engen, commented: “At Engen, we fuel ambitions and communities - and rugby has always been a sport that unites and uplifts. Partnering with the BKT URC allows us to celebrate the passion and resilience that make rugby such a powerful force in South Africa and beyond. We’re proud to stand alongside the BKT URC in supporting the growth of the game and inspiring fans across continents.”

From epic rivalries to unforgettable tries, the United Rugby Championship continues to showcase the best of global rugby talent. With Engen joining the URC family, the league strengthens its connection to South African fans and reaffirms its commitment to creating lasting impact - on the pitch and in the communities that make the game thrive.

Fixtures

FRIDAY

Edinburgh Rugby v Benetton

Hive Stadium, Edinburgh – KO 7.45pm IRE & UK/8.45pm ITA & SA

Referee: Ben Breakspear (WRU, 12th league game)

AR 1: Jonny MacKenzie (SRU) AR 2: Finlay Brown (SRU)

TMO: Aled Griffiths (WRU)

Live on: Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Connacht Rugby v Vodacom Bulls

Dexcom Stadium, Galway – KO 7.45pm IRE & UK/8.45pm ITA & SA

Referee: Mike Adamson (SRU, 93rd league game)

AR 1: Andrew Cole (IRFU) AR 2: Jack MacNeice (IRFU)

TMO: Hollie Davidson (SRU)

Live on: TG4, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Dragons RFC v Cardiff Rugby

Rodney Parade, Newport – KO 7.45pm IRE & UK/8.45pm ITA & SA

Referee: Federico Vedovelli (FIR, 17th league game)

AR 1: Craig Evans (WRU) AR 2: Adam Jones (WRU)

TMO: Stefano Roscini (FIR)

Live on: S4C, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

SATURDAY

Lions v Scarlets

Ellis Park, Johannesburg – KO 12.45pm IRE & UK/1.45 ITA & SA

Referee: Eoghan Cross (IRFU, 31st league game)

AR 1: Griffin Colby (SARU) AR 2: AJ Jacobs (SARU)

TMO: Sam Grove-White (SRU)

Live on: SuperSport, Premier Sports, TG4, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Hollywoodbets Sharks v Ulster Rugby

Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban – KO 3pm IRE & UK/4pm ITA & SA

Referee: Ben Whitehouse (WRU, 111th league game)

AR 1: Morne Ferreira (SARU) AR 2: Sean Muller (SARU)

TMO: Ben Connor (WRU)

Live on: SuperSport, Premier Sports, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Leinster Rugby v Munster Rugby

Croke Park, Dublin – KO 5.15pm IRE & UK/6.15pm ITA & SA

Referee: Gianluca Gnecchi (FIR, 44th league game)

AR 1: Peter Martin (IRFU) AR 2: Jonny Erskine (IRFU)

TMO: Stefano Penne (FIR)

Live on: TG4, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Zebre Parma v DHL Stormers

Stadio Lanfranchi, Parma – KO 7.45pm IRE & UK/8.45pm ITA & SA

Referee: Andrew Brace (IRFU, 109th league game)

AR 1: Filippo Russo (FIR) AR 2: Lorenzo Pedezzi (FIR)

TMO: Olly Hodges (IRFU)

Live on: Sky Italia, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Ospreys v Glasgow Warriors

Dunraven Brewery Field, Bridgend – KO 7.45pm IRE & UK/8.45pm ITA & SA

Referee: Andrea Piardi (FIR, 56th league game)

AR 1: Ben Breakspear (WRU) AR 2: Amber Stamp-Dunstan (WRU)

TMO: Matteo Liperini (FIR)

Live on: Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv