BLACK and Bold: Pirates Rewrite Rugby History in 2025
The Stanbic Black Pirates Rugby Club are 2025 Uganda Rugby Premiership champions, securing their third league title in spectacular fashion with victory over the Jinja Hippos. But behind the glory of the win lies a deeper story one of innovation, strategic alignment, and the powerful impact of partnerships. At the heart of this success is BLACK, Uganda’s pioneering direct-to-consumer tech brand, whose collaboration with the Pirates redefined both performance and fan engagement
In early 2025, the Pirates partnered with BLACK, a homegrown brand specializing in cutting-edge audio and wearable tech. While many saw it as a branding opportunity, the Pirates saw it as a competitive edge.
From training with wearable tech that delivered real time fitness analytics, to immersive fan experiences powered by BLACK’s high quality Bluetooth speakers and audio gear, the Pirates embraced a new way of playing and connecting. The integration of technology elevated player performance, enabled smarter coaching decisions, and energized the Pirates’ growing fanbase both on and offline.
This partnership transformed the Pirates into more than just a team, it made them a movement backed by innovation, lifestyle, and Ugandan pride.
BLACK wasn’t the only partner fueling the Pirates’ rise. Roke Telkom, another key stakeholder, injected UGX 450 million into the club, backing initiatives that lifted the sport.
This smart approach blending sports, tech, and social impact positioned the Pirates not just as champions of the game, but as ambassadors for national progress.
The Pirates' triumph is more than just a rugby win. It’s a case study in how Ugandan brands and teams can co-create value. BLACK’s partnership brought energy, innovation, and identity to the Pirates, while the Pirates gave BLACK a platform rooted in culture, resilience, and competitive excellence.
As the 2025 champions raise their trophy, they carry with them the spirit of modern sport where performance meets purpose, and where partnerships like the one with BLACK prove that success is built together.