PNG CHIEFS- NEW PNGNRL TEAM ANNOUNCED
PRIME Minister James Marape has announced the new PNG NRL team to enter the NRL in 2028 as the PNG Chiefs.
Prime Minister made the announcement at the Santos National Football Stadium ahead of the annual Prime Minister’s XIII matches between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
The announcement was witness by the home crowd who gathered to watch the match this afternoon.
A video played on the big screen counted down to the announcement and the Chiefs names was revealed.
The name Chief was chosen following joint decision by the governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia, with the Australian Rugby League Commission, that followed after a public naming competition, which that saw more than 20,000 people gave their submissions.
The Prime Minister said Chiefs had particular appeal for the PNG team as the term Chief can be equally applied to a male or female leader in Papua New Guinea.
Prime Minister Marape said the PNG Chiefs name is a fitting emblem as the country celebrates 50 years of Independence in 2025, representing both the past and future of leadership in Papua New Guinea.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the Australian Government and NRL leadership for their steadfast partnership in making Papua New Guinea’s NRL dream a reality. He thanked Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his commitment to strengthening people-to-people ties through sports diplomacy and supporting Papua New Guinea’s bid as part of the broader Australia–Pacific sports partnership.
He also recognised ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys and NRL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Abdo for their confidence in PNG’s rugby league culture, talent, and national passion for the sport.
