Final whistle blown on stadium

Last Thursday, the Millennium Stadium sign, which has welcomed rugby fans to Cardiff for the last 15 years, was taken down ready for the rugby ground’s rebirth as the Principality Stadium next January.

The Millennium Stadium’s iconic sign being taken down after 15 years of welcoming rugby fans to Cardiff

The Welsh Rugby Union has partnered with the Cardiff-based building society in a 10-year, multi-million pound naming rights deal, which will bring increased investment into the community game across Wales.

The sun is setting over one of the world’s best-loved stadiums ahead of its rebrand

Group sales and marketing manager of the WRU, Craig Maxwell explains: “Principality wanted a marketing tool which was very Welsh, but travelled, and there’s nothing better than the Millennium Stadium.”

Principality Building Society are dedicated to providing employment in Wales and investing in the national sport

He reassures fans that the way the ground looks, feels and reacts will not change, and hopes spectators will continue to enjoy the experience provided by one of the world’s best-loved stadiums.

The Breakdown

Have a listen to what to expect when the Principality Stadium kicks off on January 22 2016:

[youtube width=”220″ height=”180″]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bl7RWhuYWqo[/youtube]

Q & A with group sales and marketing manager of the WRU, Craig Maxwell

What are we to expect from the Principality Stadium?

I think the Principality Stadium’s position will be much the same. The important part of the message which has come through from the relationship is the increased investment into the community game.

Why was Principality chosen as a partner for the Welsh Rugby Union?

Principality is very proud to be Welsh. They want to make sure that being Welsh and being established in Wales is always at the core and root of their brand.

How do you think the public will react to the new name?

I think it’ll be mixed. Understandably, there are going to be some people who don’t like it, and everybody’s completely entitled to their own opinion. We’re not going to be forcing anybody to call it the new name. It’ll be a shame to see that brand go because it’s created a lot of great memories for people over the last 15 years.

How many Millennium Stadium signs are currently at the stadium?

Geekily, I do think I know this. There are around 1,100 Millennium Stadium signs. We keep finding them everywhere. One of the grounds staff had even put one on the front of his lawn mower.

Do you think Wales will finally beat New Zealand at the Principality Stadium?

Definitely!

Here’s a look back at some of the Millennium Stadium’s best bits:

[youtube width=”220″ height=”180″]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imy2SZhidqY[/youtube]