Optical and audiology specialists Specsavers are the Headline Sponsors for the IGR Union Cup 2023 – the biggest ever UK LGBTQ+ rugby tournament that hits Birmingham next week.
Over 47 LGBTQ+ rugby teams and 1400 players from across Europe are heading to the 2023 Union Cup at Perry Barr’s Pavilion stadium. Three days of blistering back-to-back rugby will take place from 27-30 April. Over 1000 spectators are predicted to watch the rugby tournament from the sidelines over the weekend, as well as revel in the city’s vibrant nightlife too.
Specsavers joins Birmingham City Council, Gaydio, Birmingham City University and National Express as announced sponsors for the inclusive tournament.
James Anthony, Chair of the Birmingham Union Cup Organising Committee said; “We’re thrilled to announce Specsavers as our Headline Sponsor for the upcoming IGR Union Cup 2023 in Birmingham. Their involvement enables us to scale up our operations, meaning more eyes and ears can enjoy our three-day rugby tournament.”
Head of Marketing Activation at Specsavers, Vicky Clarke says: “As an organisation which supports diversity and inclusion in all its forms, and whose founder, Welshman Doug Perkins, is a passionate rugby supporter, this is the perfect partnership for us.”
“We are sure this is going to be an entertaining tournament which does a fantastic job of raising awareness of sport for all.”
This year’s IGR Union Cup 2023 will be the first time the European LGBTQ+ community and allies have come together in four years. Birmingham is the ninth host city of the tournament and organisers are building on the legacy of the 2019 Union Cup in Dublin.
If you want to get a slice of rugby action in Birmingham, tickets are still on sale.

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