The West Coast Eagles may be flying high at the top of the AFL ladder but they have just lost one of their longest-running sponsors.

A statement on the Eagles website posted at noon today said one of the longest-running partnerships in the history of Australian sport would cease at the end of the season.

SGIO joined the Eagles as a co-major sponsor in 1988 and has since been either a co-major or major sponsor.

Only a year ago, SGIO said it would extend its sponsorship arrangement with the Eagles for another three years, which would have pushed its association with the club to 34 years.

At the time, chief executive Stuart Blake said: “The three-year sponsorship extension is testament to the relationship that we have with the West Coast Eagles and the great benefits this association brings to our brand.

“The sponsorship renewal demonstrates our commitment not only to the football club, but also to the people of Western Australia, who we know love their footy.”

Camera Icon SGIO has had a partnership with the Eagles since 1988. Credit: WA News

West Coast chief executive Trevor Nisbett said today the decision to end the tie-up was disappointing but the club appreciated SGIO “wants to take a different course”.

“It has been a fruitful relationship for both parties, but we will now begin the search to replace SGIO,” he said.

“It is an exciting phase for our club with a new logo, new stadium, soon-to-be new home at Lathlain Park and a developing list.”

The Eagles have won 10 games on the trot this season and will be looking to extend the streak when they take on the Sydney Swans in Sydney tonight.

A new major sponsor would be just the fifth brand to adorn the Eagles guernsey.

SGIO chief marketing officer Brent Smart said the insurer was proud of its association with the club but the time had come to end its sponsorship.

“This is a commercial decision for our business and not reflective of the strength of the club and our partnership,” he said.

“We are proud of what we have achieved together over the past 32 years, particularly our initiatives supporting fans, grassroots football and the local community.

“We will continue to support the club for the remainder of the 2018 season and look forward to following the club’s continued success.”