Ulster Rugby grounds to no longer be called Kingspan

The home of Ulster Rugby in Belfast will no longer be called the Kingspan Stadium.

The 11-year deal with the Irish firm ran out at the end of June and a new sponsor has been found.

Ulster Rugby say they will reveal the new name of the stadium "over the coming weeks".

Ulster's commercial relationship with Cavan-based Kingspan was criticised by the government.

They previously called for Ulster Rugby to reconsider its association with the firm over its link to the Grenfell Tower fire.

It was announced last year that the long-running commercial relationship would end in June 2025.

Ulster Rugby confirmed on Tuesday on its website that it had "started a removal process of the Kingspan branding within and around the stadium, having now concluded the sponsorship".

It added: "In conjunction with our new partner, we will be making an announcement over the coming weeks."

There is extensive Kingspan branding at the stadium, previously known as Ravenhill.

On Tuesday evening, the name was still above the turnstiles and at the side of the main stand. Road signs showing directions to 'Kingspan Stadium' were also in place.

Seventy-two people died in the Grenfell Tower fire in west London in 2017.

During an inquiry, Kingspan's business practices were criticised.

But the company said its products made up only 5% of the insulation at Grenfell and were used without its recommendation.

Kingspan has been a sponsor of Ulster for more than 20 years. The naming rights deal dates back to 2014. The firm has also had its name on the team shirts.

After a disappointing 2024-2025 season, Ulster are preparing for next season with their first league match at the newly-named stadium due to take place on 26 September against the Welsh side Dragons RFC.