Overview

• The decision was confirmed at a Port Moresby board meeting attended by NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo.
• Chosen via a public competition that shortlisted Pythons and Chiefs, the title was framed by PNG leaders as reflecting tribal leadership and matrilineal traditions.
• The club is expected to be based in Port Moresby with home matches at Santos National Football Stadium, according to reports.
• The project is linked to a reported $600 million Australia–PNG sports diplomacy initiative to support facilities and development pathways.
• PNG is slated to enter the NRL in 2028, with coaching appointments yet to be decided and candidates such as Wayne Bennett, Adrian Lam and Jason Demetriou reported in contention.