Yesterday English club Bristol Rugby announced their intention to rebrand itself as Bristol Bears from 1 June 2018, in a bid to attract new investors.
📝| Club to begin brave new chapter as the #BristolBears ahead of @premrugby return.
Full story ➡️ https://t.co/Is6jH7K2DJ pic.twitter.com/qVf3bcTIei— Bristol Bears 🐻 (@BristolBears) April 16, 2018
The reaction to the move has certainly been mixed, with several fans and pundits taking to social media to voice their displeasure at the new name. Club owner Stephen Lansdown said the move was a necessary step.
In a challenging market, in order to attract investment and new audiences, we must be brave in our vision. The development of the brand expands our appeal to a global audience at a time when the appetite for professional rugby is growing in international markets.
Amongst the criticism, former Leinster and Irish out-half Ian Madigan responded to rugby pundit David Flatman defending the move.
It’s no joke. I like your show on channel 5, good analysis and some very witty moments. But save the negative comment when @Bristol_RFC are trying to build a sustainable club in a challenging time for professional rugby.
— Ian madigan (@Ian_madigan) April 17, 2018
As I said, big respect for you as a player and I’ve really enjoyed your punditry this year. But for me always club first and we are all confident this will be a success.
— Ian madigan (@Ian_madigan) April 17, 2018
Bristol will return to the Premiership under their new name, as Pat Lam's side look to build on a successful season whilst commercially make their mark in America.
