Today, Papua New Guinea steps into the annals of history with unparalleled pride and joy as we celebrate our nation’s inclusion as the 18th team in the prestigious National Rugby League (NRL) competition. Prime Minister Hon. James Marape extends his heartfelt congratulations and deep gratitude to every person who has made this dream a reality.
“Today, our hearts filled with appreciation and our spirits soar with the realisation of a dream that will bind us together as a nation,” Prime Minister Marape proclaimed.
“The inclusion of Papua New Guinea in the NRL is not merely a sporting triumph; it is a testament to our will for our unity through sport patriotism and our unyielding passion for rugby league.”
Prime Minister Marape highlighted the transformative power of this achievement.
“Rugby league is more than a game for us—it is a mode to affirm of our national identity, reveal our resilience, and affirm our collective aspiration to be one people , one nation and one country. This moment is a beacon of hope, igniting the flames of possibility for every child who dreams of greatness, for every community that yearns for progress, and for every citizen who believes in the power of unity.”
Prime Minister Marape expressed his deep gratitude to the athletes, coaches, and supporters who have demonstrated that rugby league is thriving in our country. He also acknowledged the PNGNRL bid team, led by Mr. Wapu Sonk, for their tireless efforts in bringing this vision to life.
“Your dedication and perseverance are the pillars upon which this monumental achievement stands. You have shown us that with commitment and effort, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.”
The Prime Minister called on all Papua New Guineans to embrace this opportunity with pride and determination.
“Let us unite behind our team, showing the world the strength, courage, and spirit of Papua New Guinea. Together, we will rise to meet every challenge and seize every opportunity. This is our time to shine, and we will do so with unwavering pride and boundless optimism.”
The inclusion of Papua New Guinea in the NRL is a cornerstone of a broader partnership between Australia and Papua New Guinea, aimed at deepening ties through rugby league. The Australian Government has pledged its support for a PNG team to enter the NRL competition by
2028, marking a significant milestone in the history and future of both nations. This partnership promises economic benefits through investment in infrastructure and sports development, fostering unity and pride among the people of Papua New Guinea.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Marape officially announced this historic inclusion, underscoring the strategic importance of this partnership. The NRL team will not only provide opportunities for local talent but also serve as a unifying force for the nation.
Prime Minister Marape stressed that the successful NRL bid isn’t just about rugby league.
“For us, it’s a national unification strategy. Hosting the team in Port Moresby from 2028 onwards gives us a chance to transform the city—not just in terms of its security, cleanliness, and sports facilities, but also in preparing it for sports tourism. Extensive work is planned to make Port Moresby a hub for local and international visitors,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that this initiative represents a lifestyle change.
“Port Moresby will undergo a continuous transformation, similar to the impact of the APEC event, aiming to make the city a center for sports tourism,” he said.
“Security development is crucial to this plan, ensuring that players and visitors live, work, and play in a safe environment. This includes collaborating with leaders to enhance surrounding villages for tourism.Our commitment to modernising Port Moresby aligns with our participation in the NRL, setting a standard comparable to cities like Auckland and those in Australia. Additionally, opening the road from Lae to Port Moresby will stimulate economic activities along its corridor.
“The economic value of hosting a professional NRL team is immense. It’s not just about sports; it’s about unifying and economic benefits. Unlike the Kumuls’ games, this team will play internationally every week, bringing continuous media coverage and spotlight to our country. This is a unique opportunity to showcase the real PNG, especially our friendliness and unity in diversity. As Nelson Mandela united South Africa through sport, we can use rugby
league to bring our nation together, providing opportunities for homegrown players to compete at the highest level in both men’s and women’s competitions.”