The PNG Chiefs have strengthened their foundations ahead of their historic 2028 NRL debut, confirming Toyota Tsusho (PNG) Limited, trading as Ela Motors, as a Major Partner and the club’s official automotive partner.
The partnership brings one of Papua New Guinea’s leading automotive and marine businesses into the Chiefs’ growing commercial network, providing support designed to help the club establish itself as a professional sporting organisation operating across the country and on the NRL stage.
Under the long-term agreement, the Toyota logo will feature on the shoulders of the PNG Chiefs jersey from 2028, while the company becomes the club’s exclusive partner in the automotive category.
Beyond jersey branding, the agreement includes stadium signage, media backdrop branding, digital integration, hospitality opportunities and match-day activations. It will also deliver a significant value-in-kind contribution to support the club’s operations.
MORE THAN JUST A JERSEY PARTNERSHIP
For the PNG Chiefs, the deal represents more than a commercial arrangement. Reliable transport will be essential as the club prepares to manage its growing workforce, support staff, players and wider operations across Papua New Guinea.
PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said the partnership demonstrated the importance of working with organisations that could contribute directly to building the club, both on and off the field.
She said having the right automotive partner was critical to ensuring the club could operate efficiently while moving people safely and effectively.
McPherson welcomed the opportunity to work with a globally recognised automotive name that also understood Papua New Guinea’s unique market and communities.
As the Chiefs move closer to their first NRL season, partnerships that strengthen their day-to-day operations will be vital to establishing a sustainable and professionally run club.
ELA MOTORS BACKS A NEW CHAPTER FOR PNG RUGBY LEAGUE
Toyota Tsusho (PNG) Limited, trading as Ela Motors, has welcomed the opportunity to join the PNG Chiefs as a Major Partner.
Ela Motors PNG CEO Masaru Maximi described the agreement as an honour, highlighting the company’s commitment to mobility, community engagement and contributing positively to Papua New Guinea’s future.
Maximi said the partnership would allow the company to share the excitement of the Chiefs’ journey with people and communities throughout the country.
He also pointed to the values of excellence, unity and national pride represented by the team, expressing confidence in building a strong and lasting relationship with the club and its supporters.
The partnership aligns with Toyota Tsusho’s broader mission of contributing to a better future and creating value for society through its business activities.
BUILDING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR 2028
The announcement marks another important step in the PNG Chiefs’ preparations for their entry into the NRL in 2028.
With the club continuing to secure major commercial partners, the focus is on developing the infrastructure, resources and operational capability needed to compete at the highest level of rugby league.
For Papua New Guinea, the Chiefs represent a landmark opportunity to showcase the nation’s talent, culture and passion for the game on one of rugby league’s biggest stages.
With Ela Motors now on board as the official automotive partner, the Chiefs have added another significant name to their growing support network.
The countdown to 2028 continues — and the PNG Chiefs are building the partnerships needed to take Papua New Guinea to the NRL.
Author: Michael B