ZimRugby and CFAO Mobility join forces to drive the Sables ahead of Rugby World Cup

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) has announced a major two-year partnership with CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe, which will see the leading automotive company become the official transport partner of the Sables.

The partnership comes as Zimbabwe intensifies preparations for its return to the global stage at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

With focus now shifting firmly towards building a competitive squad for 2027, the partnership provides critical logistical support for the national team’s technical structures and development programmes.

CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe will transport the Sables during training camps and domestic travel commitments across the country — a move expected to significantly enhance nationwide talent identification and high-performance planning.

As part of the agreement head coach Pieter Benade received a Toyota Hilux while assistant coach Ricky Chirengende and ZRU general manager Takunda Chifokoyo were each handed Suzuki Jimny vehicles.

The vehicles will allow the coaching staff to travel extensively across Zimbabwe to scout emerging talent and monitor provincial structures.

Speaking at the unveiling, CFAO managing director Carl Varga said the partnership reflects a natural alignment between the two organisations.

“The main reason we partnered with Zimbabwe Rugby is because of their mobility on the field, and we are a mobility company. We saw it as the right fit. With the team heading to the World Cup, we want to be part of that journey. CFAO is an international company, and we are heavily involved in rugby worldwide, particularly through our Suzuki brand.”

 The partnership strengthens CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe’s footprint in local sport while backing one of the country’s most recognisable national brands.

Chirengende described the deal as a strong endorsement of the Sables’ growing stature ahead of their World Cup campaign.

“The partnership with CFAO Mobility Zimbabwe is a huge statement. Having such a multinational company backing the Sables brand is significant. The biggest advantage is that the coaches can now travel across the country to assess teams and identify talent nationwide.”

Improved mobility is expected to be central to Zimbabwe’s squad-building efforts as preparations accelerate for Australia 2027.

The CFAO Mobility agreement adds to increasing commercial activity around the Zimbabwe national rugby union team after their qualification for the global showpiece for the first time since 1991.

Recently, Zimbabwe Rugby also secured a partnership with Gilbert Rugby as the official ball supplier — another key strategic step as the Sables prepare for their return to rugby’s biggest stage.

With structured backing and renewed corporate support, Zimbabwe Rugby is positioning itself for a well-resourced and competitive campaign at the 2027 Rugby World Cup. – Zim Sport Live