Jarome Luai's next chapter in Papua New Guinea has taken another intriguing turn, with the four-time premiership winner signing a major five-year deal to become the face of Pepsi in the country.
Luai is set to become the face of the global drinks brand in Papua New Guinea, with Pepsi expected to become closely associated with the star five-eighth as he prepares to make the move to the PNG Chiefs.
The five-year agreement will run through until 2031, despite Luai currently only being locked into a two-year playing contract with the Chiefs, with a player option for 2030.
It remains unclear whether the agreement with Pepsi contains any clauses that would allow Luai to exit the partnership early should he no longer remain in Papua New Guinea beyond the initial two years of his playing deal.
Luai is understood to begin his Pepsi commitments from next season, meaning the logistics of fulfilling his responsibilities in Port Moresby will need to be managed alongside his playing commitments.
That possibility was already understood to have been a factor in the Wests Tigers allowing Luai to depart the club early, with the five-eighth originally contracted beyond the 2026 season.
He will instead spend 2027 at Parramatta on a one-year deal, where he will reunite with NSW Blues teammate Mitchell Moses, before making the move to the PNG Chiefs.
The Pepsi deal represents a significant commitment to the country from Luai, who has been positioned as one of the key figures in the build-up to Papua New Guinea's arrival in the NRL.
“I'm incredibly proud to join the Pepsi and Pacific Industries family,” Luai told Code Sports.
“Their commitment to supporting young people and giving back to communities across Papua New Guinea is something I really connected with, and I'm excited to be part of it.”
Pacific Industries chair Paul Chue said Luai's background and Pacific Island heritage made him an ideal figure to represent the brand.
“Jarome represents not only exceptional skill on the field but also humble beginnings and Pacific Islands Heritage that resonate deeply with the people of Papua New Guinea,” Chue told Code Sports.
“We believe in sport being a vehicle to inspire communities, develop youth potential, and foster unity across this beautiful country.
“As PNG moves closer to realising the dream of a national NRL team, Jarome's role is a beacon for all aspiring players and fans alike.
“Jarome's story is one of overcoming adversity. Growing up in tough circumstances with not a lot and still rising to become a leader in the game is a story many young Papua New Guineans can relate to and be inspired by.
“Rugby league is more than a sport here; it's a way of life, a source of hope, and a positive outlet for young people to turn their lives around.”
Luai was the first player officially announced by the Chiefs, with the club's latest long-awaited reveal being former NRL star Joey Manu.
The Chiefs are continuing to build their inaugural roster, with the club understood to be in negotiations with Gold Coast Titans star AJ Brimson.
They are also preparing to host Canberra Raiders forward Hudson Young for a tour of their facilities and a week of talks, with the Raiders having approved the discussions ahead of the November 1 transfer window.
