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The All Blacks may find themselves having to hitch a ride to their World Cup games in 2011.
Ford New Zealand has sponsored the national team and the Super 14 rugby franchises for 15 years, and as part of the deal gives players vehicles, including the Ford Falcon, Territory and Ranger.
But a renewed contract announced by Ford this month - coinciding with the unveiling of the new Super 14 jerseys - suggests the economic crisis may be prompting the company to tighten its belt.
All Blacks and Super 14 players will be guaranteed a Ford vehicle up until the end of next year, when a decision will be made on whether the sponsorship will continue.
Ford New Zealand sponsorship manager Suzanne Van Pels acknowledged the long service and healthy relationship between the company and the All Blacks franchise, but said various circumstances had led to the year-long contract.
"Our business strategy has changed," she said. "We've got a different sponsorship strategy now - it's purely business."
New Zealand Rugby Union commercial manager Paul Dalton said the union was pleased the company had decided to carry on with the contract.
He acknowledged that the world financial crisis was affecting everyone around the world - even "the big guys".
"At the moment, we're just thrilled that it's been extended. With sponsors, it depends on the circumstances. With Phillips - who were with us last year - it's been a year. But with adidas, they're signed right up to 2019."
Mr Dalton said further discussions would take place near the end of next year.
"Nothing changes. They'll continue to sponsor us up until 2009, and if we get there and things change we'll figure it out then."
The union did not want to be without a car sponsor, Mr Dalton said - apart from any other concern, a lot of "the boys" would probably not be too keen on the idea.
