Official announcement from the Port Moresby NRL team

Papua New Guinea Granted NRL Licence for 2028 Entry in Port Moresby

Dec 11, 2024, 11:47 PM

Papua New Guinea has been officially granted an NRL licence, marking a historic expansion for rugby league. The announcement was made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and PNG Prime Minister James Marape, confirming the league's most ambitious expansion since its formation. The new team, set to become the NRL's 18th franchise and join the competition in 2028, will be based in Port Moresby. The Australian Government has committed $600 million over a decade to fund a 10-year Pacific Rugby League Partnership, described by ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM as a 'historic step for Rugby League, Australia, PNG and the entire Pacific.' This deal not only aims to solidify rugby league's role as the unifying language of the region but also serves as a strategic partnership between Australia and PNG, with security implications in the context of regional dynamics.