The PNG NRL Bid is still ongoing, and there is no official confirmation of PNG’s inclusion as the 18th NRL team. Andrew Hill, the CEO of the PNG NRL Bid, has dismissed recent media speculations about the announcement.
He stated that there are ongoing communications between PNG, the Australian Government, and the NRL board regarding the bid.
“There continues to be significant speculation around the PNG NRL Bid submission to the NRL for entry into the competition.
“We expect that an announcement will be made by Peter V’Landys and Andrew Abdo in the coming months,” Hill said.
Despite some criticism and concerns about the economy and government priorities, PNG is rooting for the bid to be successful. Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has proposed funding of AUD 600 million for the PNG-based team if the bid is successful.
Hill emphasized that PNG has submitted a compelling bid and is working closely with both governments and the NRL to increase its chances of inclusion. The bid’s progress is also evident in the recent conclusion of the academic championship and the inaugural women’s semi-professional competition.