Rugby League

PNG Chiefs secure record-breaking NRL sponsorship deal

By George Clarke

Sep 9, 2026

Chiefs composite — With big-name players already signed, the Chiefs have secured the richest NRL sponsorship deal. -AAP Image

The PNG Chiefs won't play an NRL game until 2028, but already the start-up club has netted the most lucrative sponsorship deal in the competition's history.

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The Chiefs announced on Wednesday that Bank South Pacific - which has branches throughout the Pacific - had agreed to a three-year deal to become the club's front-of-shirt sponsor.

The contract is believed to be worth about $15 million, averaging out at $5 million per season.

"This is a landmark partnership for the PNG Chiefs and Papua New Guinea and, as a club, we couldn't be prouder to welcome BSP on board," said Chiefs executive Lorna McPherson.

"To have this level of commitment to our club - including this period leading into our first game in 2028 - shows BSP's belief in what we are building, and the way we will create opportunities for Papua New Guineans for generations to come."

The acquisition of a major sponsor follows the club putting the first pieces of its roster together ahead of entry into the NRL in 2028.

The Chiefs have already signed Hull KR coach Willie Peters to lead them into their inaugural season, while also signing a who's who of high-profile names including Brian To'o, Jarome Luai, Zac Lomax, Alex Johnston and Joey Manu.