RugbyWA and Fortescue extend partnership through to 2026
RugbyWA is delighted to announce the extension of its partnership with Fortescue, with the collaboration set to continue through the 2026 season.
First established in 2018, with Fortescue as the Naming Rights Partner of the Men’s Senior Competition, the partnership has continued to evolve and strengthen, becoming a cornerstone of rugby in Western Australia. Fortescue’s ongoing association with RugbyWA is now synonymous with the state’s premier rugby competitions - the Men’s and Women’s Fortescue Premier Grade.
Under the renewed agreement, Fortescue will once again be the Naming Rights Partner of the Fortescue Premier Grade Competitions in 2026, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to supporting community sport and player development across the state
Since its inception in 2018, the Fortescue Premier Grade has continued to evolve, experiencing substantial growth and structural reform. In 2024, the Men’s Premier Grade entered a new era with the introduction of the Conference format - a move designed to elevate competition, increase parity, and showcase the depth of talent across Western Australia’s rugby clubs.
The Women’s Premier Grade has also continued to go from strength to strength, expanding in 2025 to feature seven clubs. This milestone not only reflects the growing depth of female participation but also provides more opportunities for girls and women to compete, develop, and thrive within the game.
Beyond the Premier Grade competitions, Fortescue has renewed their support as the Naming Rights partner of RugbyWA Female Academy Program – Fortescue Females of our Future. In 2025, 31 Junior girls progressed through the Emerging Players Program, building on the establishment of a female performance program in 2024.
RugbyWA Chief Executive Officer, Simon Taylor, said: “We are incredibly proud to extend our long-standing partnership with Fortescue, a relationship that has become foundational to the growth of rugby in Western Australia. Since 2018, Fortescue’s support has helped elevate our premier competitions and expand opportunities for players at every level. Their continued commitment ensures we can keep strengthening the Fortescue Premier Grade and nurturing the next generation of talent through programs like the Females of our Future. We are excited to continue building on this partnership as we shape the future of rugby across our state.”
Fortescue Director of Approvals, Communities and Services, Rosli Wheelock, said: “Rugby plays an important role in communities across Western Australia, helping people connect and keep active.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with RugbyWA and to support initiatives that grow the game, champion inclusion and provide meaningful opportunities for people of all ages.”
The Fortescue Premier Grade men’s and women’s seasons will kick off once again in early 2026.
