- The partnership will see adidas provide best-in-class performance and leisurewear for Ilona Maher – supporting her on and off the rugby pitch, as she continues her journey in rugby and beyond.
- IIona Maher is set to be the face of the launch for a brand-new women’s rugby boot later this year, alongside a prestigious list of female adidas rugby players
Today, adidas welcomes Ilona Maher as the latest member of its global roster of elite-level athletes. Built upon a shared commitment to performance at the highest level, the multi-year partnership will see adidas provide Ilona with best-in-class apparel and footwear, to support her game.
Known for her game-breaking power and strength, the announcement builds on what has been a stellar period for Ilona, having won a bronze medal at the Summer Games last year in Paris and making a notable impact in the top tier of English rugby in Bristol – scoring four tries in seven matches - helping her team reach the semi-finals.
Off the pitch, Ilona’s infectious personality is playing a major role in growing the sport of rugby globally, amassing more social media followers than any other player in the game. She uses this platform to drive conversation around women’s representation in sports and to advocate for body positivity and femininity, establishing herself as a voice of inspiration for young girls across the world, by changing the narrative around what being a woman in sport means.
ILONA MAHER, RUGBY PLAYER AND ADIDAS ATHLETE, SAID: “Throughout discussions with adidas, their passion for rugby was clear and the pursuit to deliver only the best for athletes playing their sport. The adidas team really show their support for the women’s game at all levels. I can’t wait to work with adidas to inspire a whole new generation to pick up a rugby ball, while also understanding that strength and power is beautiful. I’m particularly excited to reveal a new boot for the women’s game in the coming months – so keep your eyes peeled for that.”
KERRYN FOSTER, GM SPECIALIST SPORTS AT ADIDAS, SAID: “Ilona is not only a world-class athlete, but also a phenomenal role model. Her style of play and sheer dominance put her among the top rugby players globally. Her work off the pitch highlighting important issues around women’s participation in sport, makes her an inspiration for the next generation of rugby players. We’re thrilled to partner with Ilona and support her on every step of the journey.”
Ilona is set to initially wear the adidas Adizero RS15 – a lightweight rugby boot designed for multi-directional speed. In doing so, Ilona joins a long list of world-class players wearing the same boot including the likes of Renee Holmes, Antoine Dupont, Beauden Barrett, Emily Scarratt, Finn Russell, Jess Breach and Siya Kolisi.
In her partnership launch video, Ilona shows that strength and style do mix in rugby - and beyond – sending an empowering message to young players everywhere. To view the video, please visit @adidasRugby on Instagram.
About adidas
adidas is a global leader in the sporting goods industry. Headquartered in Herzogenaurach/Germany, the company employs more than 62,000 people across the globe and generated sales of € 23.7 billion in 2024.