Cape Town - Two-time Rugby World Cup-winning All Blacks captain, Richie McCaw, has become a "friend" of the Mercedes-Benz brand, according to the Stuff website.
According to Mercedes-Benz the partnership, announced on Tuesday, continues the philosophy of aligning with the very best in-class.
"We couldn't think of a better fit for our brand than Richie, and we are absolutely delighted to align with someone of his calibre, who perfectly embodies the Mercedes-Benz ethos of 'The Best or Nothing'," Mercedes-Benz NZ's general manager Ben Giffin says.
New Zealander of the Year, McCaw, has chosen to drive the company's GLE 350d SUV as part of the deal.
In reference to the GLE, McCaw said "it suits my lifestyle perfectly - all the technology that these cars come with now is pretty awesome.
McCaw will link other "Friends of the Brand" to be present at a number of exclusive VIP events run by the carmaker.
McCaw, 35, retired after the 2015 World Cup having captained the All Blacks in 110 of his 148 Tests. Of those 148 Tests, McCaw was on the winning side on a staggering 131 occasions.
He is also the most-capped Test player of all time, and in addition, played 145 Super Rugby matches for the Crusaders, winning the title on four occasions.