Full Breakdown
PNG Chiefs Unveil Logo and Jersey Ahead of 2028 NRL Debut
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On October 21, 2026, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs revealed their inaugural club logo and playing jersey in Port Moresby. The black primary kit features a white-accented “V” and gold cultural drawings by local artist Tabu; an alternative version swaps the black for white. The design uses the PNG flag’s red, black, yellow and white palette, with a stylised chief’s face, feather headpiece, cassowary bone and kina shells. The club also announced a women’s NRLW team will use the same branding.
Background & Context
The unveiling proceeds despite a trademark dispute with New Zealand Rugby (NZ Rugby), which argues the “Chiefs” name infringes on the Waikato Chiefs franchise. NZ Rugby sought an injunction; the New Zealand High Court denied it, and the case is set for trial next year.
Data & Statistics
- Club colours: black, white, gold (red in the logo).
- Jersey price: $159 for adult sizes in Australia; 99 kina (? $32) in PNG.
- Design contributors: logo by PNG graphic artists; jersey artwork by Tabu.
- Key personnel: Willie Peters appointed head coach for 2028; signings include Jarome Luai, Zac Lomax, Brian To’o, Alex Johnston and Joseph Manu.
- Future player market: a signing spree is slated to continue from November 1 when a large pool of NRL players becomes available.
Official Statements & Responses
Chair Catherine Harris praised the design as unmistakably Papua New Guinean. NRL officials said the club’s use of the “Chiefs” name is legally defensible and rebranding would be impractical.
Criticism & Opposition
NZ Rugby maintains the branding infringes on the Waikato Chiefs’ trademark and will pursue the case at trial.
What’s Next
- The trademark case will be heard in a New Zealand courtroom next year.
- The PNG Chiefs will field their inaugural NRL side in 2028 under coach Willie Peters.
- Additional player signings are expected to accelerate from November 1.
Verbatim Quote
- “The logo of the PNG Chiefs tells a story about Papua New Guinea – our people, what makes us strong and what makes us unique,” — Lorna McPherson, chief executive.