The PNG Chiefs are continuing their successful preparation ahead of their NRL entry, this time off the field.
One of the most iconic brands of all time, Coca-Cola, has signed on as a premier partner on a multi-year deal.
The agreement will see Coca-Cola's branding on the playing sleeves of the Chiefs' jerseys when they run out for the first time in 2028 and years to follow.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PNG (CCEP PNG) has been a long-standing contributor to grassroots and community work in the country, and the landmark sponsorship deal reflects their commitment to growth in PNG rugby league pathways.
Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson says she is thrilled to have (CCEP PNG) jump on board as a major partner for the club in its early years of development.
“As a club, we're incredibly pleased to welcome Coca-Cola Europacific Partners on
board in a partnership which reflects the ambitions of both organisations and the scale
of the opportunity that exists for us in Papua New Guinea,” McPherson said in a Chiefs statement.
“Coca-Cola is one of the most recognisable brands in the world and to have CCEP
partner with the club is a powerful endorsement of what we are building.
“The PNG Chiefs will be a club that proudly represents all of Papua New Guinea and the
alignment with CCEP – and their extraordinary ability to reach communities right across
the country – creates an incredible opportunity for us in how we engage our entire
community and bring supporters closer to their team.”
The deal will see Coca-Cola branded products support match-day hospitality, media, and community platforms from 2028 onwards.
They are also already affiliated with PNG rugby league pathways with the PNG Hunters.
CCEP PNG Director Tim Solly says he is proud to continue supporting pathways in Papua New Guinea and is pleased to be partnering with the new NRL franchise.
"From our association with the Ipatas Cup, through to our support of the PNG Hunters
and now our partnership with the PNG Chiefs, we have witnessed the power of rugby
league to unite communities, inspire future generations and create lasting pride for
Papua New Guineans,” Solly said.
"As one of the country's most recognised and trusted brands, we are proud to partner
with the PNG Chiefs as they build toward their historic entry into the NRL competition."
"The PNG Chiefs represent an exciting new chapter for the sport and for the country,
and we are honoured to be part of that journey from the very beginning.”
The agreement with Coca-Cola comes a matter of weeks after the Chiefs announced Bank South Pacific as their major sponsor for the club.
It is the largest club sponsorship deal in NRL history and, accompanied by CCEP PNG, shows strong commercial success the club is striving for during its early years as a franchise.
On the field, the Chiefs have also picked up some household names.
It includes a star-studded lineup of Jarome Luai, Alex Johnston, Zac Lomax, Joseph Manu, Connor Watson and Brian To'o to kick things off.
2027 will see plenty of names throughout the NRL commit to the switch to Port Moresby.
