PNG Chiefs plan stadium expansion for NRL entry

The PNG Chiefs, set to become the NRL’s 19th franchise in 2028, are exploring major upgrades to the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. Currently, the venue has a capacity of 15,000, making it one of the smallest in the competition.

Chief Executive Lorna McPherson stated that the club intends to explore increasing the capacity to 25,000 in the years following their inaugural season. Plans also include adding 15 to 20 corporate boxes to address current limitations in facilities, such as a lack of shaded areas and limited corporate infrastructure.

The club aims to ensure that ticket prices and merchandise remain affordable for local residents. The unveiling of the team’s maiden jersey, which is estimated to be worth $20 million in sponsorship, was attended by Papua New Guinean Prime Minister James Marape and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong.