15/09/2026
🚨MEDIA RELEASE🚨
2026 RUGBY LEAGUE SEASON CLOSES ON A HIGH NOTE
Port Moresby, 15th September 2026: The 2026 PNG National Rugby League season has officially come to a close following an exciting Grand Final weekend that showcased not only the best of rugby league in Papua New Guinea, but also the positive spirit, sportsmanship and community that continue to shape the game.
From the Santos Cup Grand Final through to the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup decider, supporters turned out in numbers to back their teams and be part of the season’s biggest weekend.
The PNG National Rugby League Competition commends supporters for the manner in which they conducted themselves throughout the Grand Finals, with fans showing passion for their teams while maintaining respect for players, officials, fellow spectators, and the wider rugby league community.
Their behaviour contributed to a positive and enjoyable atmosphere at the venue and allowed families, players, and supporters to celebrate the occasion together.
The PNG NRLC also acknowledges the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, security personnel and event security teams who were on hand throughout the Grand Final weekend. Their professionalism, vigilance and commitment helped ensure the matches were conducted in a safe and orderly environment.
PNG NRLC Chairman Adrian Chow said the successful conclusion of the season reflected the collective effort of everyone involved, both on and off the field.
“The Grand Final weekend was a great reflection of what rugby league can be when everyone plays their part. We saw passionate supporters come out to back their teams, while our police and security personnel worked hard to ensure everyone could enjoy the occasion in a safe environment.
“I would like to sincerely thank our fans, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, security teams, match officials, AV and technical crews, medical teams, venue staff, volunteers and everyone who worked behind the scenes. Their professionalism and conduct throughout both Grand Finals helped us finish the season on a very positive note.”
The organisation also extends its appreciation to the audio-visual officials, match officials, medical teams, venue staff, volunteers, administrators, technical crews and everyone working behind the scenes, whose combined efforts helped deliver a successful Grand Final weekend.
On the field, the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Grand Final produced a memorable contest, with the Agmark Rabaul Gurias Warriors claiming the 2026 premiership after defeating the PRK Mendi Muruks 26–14.
The Santos Cup Grand Final also provided a fitting showcase of the continued growth of women’s rugby league, with players and teams closing out another competitive season.
The PNG NRLC congratulates all participating franchises, players, coaches, team officials and match officials for their commitment throughout the 2026 season and for contributing to the growth and development of the competitions.
The organisation also acknowledges the continued support of its naming rights partners, Digicel and ExxonMobil PNG, for the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos for its ongoing investment in women’s rugby league through the Santos Cup.
Appreciation is also extended to PacificAus Sports, Kumul Mineral Holdings Limited, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, WR Carpenters and Air Niugini, as well as the PNG Rugby Football League, PNG Chiefs, SP PNG Hunters, NRL in PNG, government, corporate, media and community partners.
As the 2026 season comes to an end, the PNG NRLC thanks everyone who played a part in making the season possible. The positive conduct displayed throughout the Grand Final weekend, both on and off the field, provided a fitting finish to the year and reflected the values the sport continues to promote.
The PNG NRLC looks forward to building on the progress made throughout 2026 as it continues working with its partners, stakeholders, and the rugby league community towards 'Better People. Better Sports. Better Nation'.
