PNG Chiefs Announce Premier Partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Ahead of 2028 NRL Debut

The Papua New Guinea Chiefs have secured Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Papua New Guinea as a premier partner under a multi-year agreement.

The partnership places the globally recognisable Coca-Cola branding prominently on the playing sleeves of the men’s team jersey, while granting exclusive category rights within the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverage market across match days, media assets, hospitality suites, and community platforms.

This alliance builds upon Coca-Cola’s extensive involvement in regional rugby league pathways, spanning community grassroots competitions, the Ipatas Cup, and the Queensland Cup participation of the PNG Hunters, reinforcing the organisation’s long-term commitment to domestic sports development.

Highligting the weight of the collaboration as the expansion franchise constructs its operational framework, PNG Chiefs CEO, Lorna McPherson, said: “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.” 

“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,” McPherson said.

The inclusion of CCEP expands the club’s corporate partner portfolio, providing vital commercial stability and nationwide distribution capacity. 

Underscoring the broader cultural and social impact of the sponsorship agreement, country director at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Papua New Guinea, Tim Solly, added: “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.” 

“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 beginning,” Solly said.

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