Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has warmly welcomed Jarome Luai, his family, and management team to Papua New Guinea during their visit to Port Moresby, describing the presence of one of rugby league’s elite players as a proud and encouraging moment for the country.
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea was honoured to host a player currently regarded among the top talents in the National Rugby League competition.
“To have a player of Jarome Luai’s calibre visit our country, experience our culture, meet our people, and see what Papua New Guinea has to offer is heartwarming for our nation,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“On behalf of the people and Government of Papua New Guinea, I welcome him and his family to our country.”
Luai is one of the biggest names in modern rugby league. Born in Sydney to Samoan heritage, he rose through the junior ranks of Penrith Panthers before becoming a key architect of the club’s golden era. He helped steer Penrith to multiple NRL premierships and earned a reputation as one of the game’s most skilful and competitive five-eighths.
Known for his flair, speed, confidence, and leadership, Luai has also represented Samoa national rugby league team on the world stage, helping inspire the nation’s historic run to the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final. He has become a powerful symbol of Pacific excellence in global sport.
In 2025, Luai joined Wests Tigers on a major long-term deal, one of the most high-profile player movements in recent NRL history.
Australian media reports said Luai was in Port Moresby meeting officials connected to the incoming Papua New Guinea Chiefs franchise, expected to enter the NRL in 2028.
Prime Minister Marape said while there had been speculation around recruitment, all proper contractual and professional processes must be respected.
“At this stage, there is nothing formal or concrete. Jarome remains contracted to the Wests Tigers, and we fully respect his current obligations,” he said.
“We are a nation that honours due process, and we respect clubs, contracts, and the professionalism of the game.”
Prime Minister Marape thanked Benji Marshall and the Wests Tigers organisation for allowing Luai to visit Papua New Guinea during the season.
He said it was pleasing to see Luai attend local rugby league matches and experience first-hand the passion Papua New Guineans have for the sport.
“Rugby league is more than a game in our country. It is a force that unites people from hundreds of languages, cultures, and provinces into one nation,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“That is why our new NRL team is so important. It represents national unity, opportunity for youth, and a proud future for Papua New Guinea in the region.”
The Prime Minister also said Papua New Guinea’s new franchise would not only belong to PNG, but would embrace the wider Pacific family.
“We are a Pacific nation, and this team will reflect Pacific values — family, hospitality, respect, togetherness, and shared identity,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape said the visit by a player of Luai’s stature showed growing confidence in Papua New Guinea’s ability to host and sustain a successful NRL club.
“To be the first high-profile player to come and show interest in our team is something we deeply appreciate,” he said.
“It sends a message that Papua New Guinea is ready, rugby league is strong here, and our future in the NRL is bright.”