Bristol Bears announces ‘landmark’ new partnership

Chief executive Tom Tainton said it was a ‘ground-breaking moment’ for the Gallagher PREM side

Bristol Bears has agreed a “landmark” long-term partnership with a UK law firm. Foot Anstey will become the club’s new principal partner for the 2026-27 season, with shirt branding for both the men’s and women’s teams.

The Gallagher PREM side said the multi-year agreement represented “one of the most progressive partnerships” in the club’s history.

Under the terms of the deal, Foot Anstey, which has 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, it will become the Bears’ exclusive legal provider, offering a full range of legal solutions to the club and its players over the term of the partnership.

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 said the deal was “a ground-breaking moment” for the club.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

The news comes just a day after South West Gallagher PREM club Exeter Chiefs announced it had been acquired in a major deal by US businessman Bill Foley, ending 155 years of member ownership.