TOKYO - Toshiba Corporation today announced that it has become a Tournament Sponsor of the Rugby World Cup 2007 to be held in France.

Rugby World Cup 2007 will provide Toshiba with a European platform to support a wide range of product areas including audio visual products, air conditioning systems and equipments, and mobile phones.

On a global level, Toshiba has a long-standing commitment to the sport and currently owns a league team called the Toshiba Brave Lupus, which competes in Japan's Top League, the league of 14 strongest companies' rugby teams in Japan.

"Toshiba has always been a big supporter of rugby and we are extremely pleased to be associated with this exciting and prestigious event," said Mr. Takahiro Ishii, the President and CEO of Toshiba of Europe Ltd. "The Rugby World Cup is a driving force in the game with a long and proud heritage and we are very honoured to be sponsoring an event which brings together countries from around the world."

"The provision of electronics hardware is crucial to the successful delivery of a tournament the size of Rugby World Cup and we are delighted that Toshiba, a world leader in the electronics field, has joined the impressive list of Tournament Sponsors for Rugby World Cup 2007," said International Rugby Board Chairman, Dr Syd Millar.
 
"Toshiba has a long and successful association with major sporting tournaments and Toshiba's appointment further highlights the enormous prestige of Rugby World Cup 2007 as a major event on the global sporting calendar."

Rugby World Cup 2007 will take place from 7th September to 20th October.  The majority of the 48 matches will be played in France whilst a few will be held in stadiums in Wales and Scotland.