Bristol Bears has announced a 'landmark' long-term partnership with UK law firm Foot Anstey, which will become the club's new principal partner for the 2026-27 season. The deal includes shirt branding for both the men's and women's teams, marking one of the most progressive partnerships in the club's history, according to the Gallagher PREM side.
Details of the Multi-Year Agreement
Under the multi-year agreement, Foot Anstey—which operates 11 offices including in Exeter, Bristol, and Manchester—will also become the main partner of the Bristol Bears Foundation, the club's award-winning charitable arm. Off the pitch, the law firm will serve as the Bears' exclusive legal provider, offering a full range of legal solutions to the club and its players over the partnership term.
Quotes from Key Figures
Foot Anstey managing partner Martin Hirst said: 'Our partnership with Bristol Bears is built on a shared belief in the impact individuals can have when they come together as a team. From our earliest conversations, it was clear this is more than sponsorship, it’s about bringing together two ambitious organisations to drive performance, support our communities and create lasting impact. This reflects how we work as a firm: building strong relationships, working collaboratively and focusing on what really matters to our clients and to the communities around us. Sport has a unique ability to bring people together and create momentum. We’re excited about what we can achieve, alongside Bristol Bears and the Bristol Bears Foundation, over the coming years.'
Bristol Bears chief executive Tom Tainton described the deal as 'a ground-breaking moment' for the club. He added: 'From the beginning of this process, Foot Anstey has been an excellent partner – collaborative, engaging and genuinely excited about using the power of sport to leave a lasting legacy. Having Foot Anstey's name on our shirts is about far more than a business agreement; it is a statement of intent about our aligned growth journeys. This authentic partnership represents a shared set of values and a long-term commitment to driving success across our men's, women's and community programmes. Foot Anstey's support of the Bristol Bears Foundation is particularly significant, enabling us to expand our reach and deepen our impact within the communities we serve.'
Context and Impact
The announcement comes just a day after South West Gallagher PREM club Exeter Chiefs revealed it had been acquired in a major deal by US businessman Bill Foley, ending 155 years of member ownership. The partnership underscores Bristol Bears' commitment to growth both on and off the pitch, leveraging legal expertise and community support to enhance its programmes.
