One of the largest international sporting events in the world, became even more Priceless this past week as three new MasterCard ambassadors - Sebastien Chabal, Chris Robshaw and Martin Johnson - joined Rugby World Cup and All Black legend, Dan Carter, to deliver Priceless Surprises to fans from now through to Rugby World Cup 2015. Read the full press release on the MasterCard Engagement Bureau.

Priceless Surprise! Unsuspecting youngsters from St John's School, Leatherhead, were expecting a tea ...

Priceless Surprise! Unsuspecting youngsters from St John's School, Leatherhead, were expecting a team building exercise on the London Eye, but awaiting them were Rugby World Cup 2003 winning captain, Martin Johnson and current skipper Chris Robshaw to deliver to them a priceless pep talk. MasterCard, the Preferred Card and Official Payment System of Rugby World Cup was there to capture the moment. (Photo: Business Wire)

In London, Chris Robshaw and Martin Johnson and kicked off the partnership by giving a school rugby team a Priceless Surprise on the London Eye. MasterCard was there to capture the moment, watch the Priceless Surprises video here.

“In the build up to the must-see tournament, what better way to delight and excite fans than through unexpected experiences delivered by these Rugby superstars themselves,” said Raja Rajamannar, chief marketing officer, MasterCard. “Priceless has always been about what matters most, and we can’t think of a better way to get passionate Rugby fans closer to their sport.”

The day was one of many Priceless Surprises MasterCard will be creating for cardholders and fans ahead of Rugby World Cup. Other Priceless Surprises include the opportunity to present the Man of the Match award. For more information search for #PricelessSurprises on Twitter or find us on Facebook.

For more information about MasterCard’s sponsorship of Rugby World Cup, visit our digital press kit.

About MasterCard

MasterCard (NYSE:MA), www.mastercard.com, is a technology company in the global payments industry. We operate the world’s fastest payments processing network, connecting consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. MasterCard’s products and solutions make everyday commerce activities – such as shopping, traveling, running a business and managing finances – easier, more secure and more efficient for everyone. Follow us on Twitter @MasterCardNews, join the discussion on the Cashless Pioneers Blog and subscribe for the latest news on the Engagement Bureau.