“Rugby is the second-fastest growing spectator sport in the world today," said Michael Fanning, vice president of corporate affairs for Michelin North America. "In addition, there is widespread participation in the sport at the university and club level throughout North America. When you combine these ingredients with national exposure via a live ESPN Classic broadcast, there is a potent opportunity for local, state and national entities to sponsor a top-drawer international rugby match in South Carolina.”
Clermont-Auvergne was founded in 1911 as AS Michelin, therefore proving an ideal participant in the Michelin-backed international – the first match of its kind to be played in South Carolina. The president of rugby operations for USA Rugby, Nigel Melville stated the importance of the event in promoting the sport in the U.S. (Tyres & Accessories/Staffordshire, U.K.)
