The PNG Chiefs today announced that BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) is its official Principal Foundation Partner.

The announcement today at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city is a landmark partnership that marks the largest sponsorship in the history of the National Rugby League (NRL).

The PNG Chiefs' Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ms. Lorna McPherson said that his partnership is unprecedented.

“BSP has become the biggest jersey sponsor in the history of the NRL — not just for an expansion club or in the Pacific, but in the entire 118-year history of the league,” said McPherson.

She emphasized that the significance of the partnership is beyond just mere branding.

“When our jersey is revealed next month, it will carry more partnership value than any other NRL team — around $AU20 million on a single shirt. Our sponsorship already totals approximately $AU25 million for our first season, putting us at the top of the competition in commercial revenue even before we've played a game,” she said.

She highlighted BSP’s commitment to Papua New Guinea’s development, is to build PNG and the Pacific, and this partnership reflects that.

“It’s not just a logo on a jersey; it’s a statement that we back ourselves, our people, and our young men and women to compete globally. This deal isn’t just about sponsorship; it’s about creating pathways for our juniors, establishing training centers, and supporting women’s participation in sport,” said McPherson.

McPherson also shared plans for future initiatives, including a training and accommodation center for 50 top young players.

“Having BSP sponsor us enables us to build our own center of excellence, support our women’s teams, and create jobs for Papua New Guineans in Port Moresby. Every kina invested by BSP flows back into these programs. This is why it matters to every Papua New Guinean,” she explained.

“When our team runs out with the name of our nation on its chest and the BSP logo proudly displayed, no one will ever question why Papua New Guinea belongs in the world of elite sport,” McPherson declared.

BSP Board Chairman – Robert Bradshaw, underscored the importance of the partnership.

“The PNG Chiefs bring us all together under one name, one jersey, and one flag. Supporting the Chiefs isn’t just about rugby; it’s about fostering national pride and inspiring our youth. When the team takes the field in Australia or Port Moresby, they carry the hopes of an entire nation,” he said.

Bradshaw acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the partnership and whose vision that made it a reality.

CEO of BSP – Mark Robinson, reiterated the significance of the alliance.

“Our partnership with the PNG Chiefs is the largest in NRL history and reflects our ambition to support more than just a team. We will engage fans, support development programs, and work to improve financial literacy across PNG,” he said.

Robinson noted that the long-term nature of the partnership will see BSP support the club from 2026 to 2030, with hopes of extending even further.

“These builds on our existing sponsorship of PNG’s Rugby League World Cup match against Lebanon, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to PNG sports.”

As the PNG Chiefs prepare for a historic debut in the NRL, the partnership with BSP signals a new era for Papua New Guinea’s sporting ambitions.

In her concluding remarks, McPherson summed it all up and said, “This is more than sponsorship. It’s a commitment to our country’s future, our people, and our pride. Today, your bank has stood with you.”

Meanwhile, the official jersey reveal is scheduled for October 22, straight after the unveiling of the new Logo, which will be prior to that on October 21.