Papua New Guinea Secures Historic NRL Team for 2028

Australia and PNG finalize a $750 million deal to launch the league's first Pacific-based team, blending sports diplomacy with regional strategy.

• Australia will invest $600 million over 10 years, with PNG contributing $150 million, to establish the team and develop rugby league in the Pacific region.
• The initiative is part of a broader Australian strategy to strengthen ties in the Pacific and counter China's influence in the region.
• The team will operate under shared governance between the NRL and PNG, with tax incentives offered to attract players and staff.
• PNG's deep passion for rugby league positions the team as a potential unifying force for the culturally diverse nation, though challenges such as infrastructure and safety remain.
• The project is seen as the most ambitious expansion in NRL history, with significant implications for sports, diplomacy, and social development in PNG.

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