Prime Minister James Marape has officially announced that Sir Hubert Murray Stadium will serve as the home ground for Papua New Guinea’s inaugural NRL team, solidifying the country’s ambitions for a stronger presence in the prestigious NRL competition.
While SHMS is the preferred choice, PM Marape acknowledged that if the stadium is not ready by 2028, the Santos National Football Stadium could temporarily host NRL games.
Governor of the host city, Powes Parkop has assured that plans are already in motion to ensure SHMS is NRL-ready before 2028. He confirmed ongoing discussions with investors and partners to fast-track the stadium’s completion.
When giving his address at Wednesday night’s formal NRL Entry signing ceremony, Governor Parkop expressed great enthusiasm and was thankful for the opportunity to be the official host city, confidently adding that the Sir Hubert Murray stadium should be NRL ready come 2028.
“This is the potential of this nation and that potential gives us Prime Minister enormous opportunity to build the economy of our capital city. And this is why for us we are thankful for this opportunity. It will also enable us to lift the quality of our infrastructure, the roads, all the basic infrastructures in the city and this stadium. We will be NRL ready come 2028 and then Andrew you all can decide.“
To meet NRL standards, SHMS will undergo major upgrades in two phases:
Stage 1 - Roofing, seating, lighting, and communications infrastructure.
Final touches to ensure a top-tier game-day experience.
Stage 2 – Stadium Expansion & Development
A high-rise hotel and car park complex, integrated with Harbour City’s corporate developments.
Governor Parkop said the planned upgrades for the SHMS would include proper media room facility, CCTV and other state of the art facilities of NRL standards.
He also acknowledged and thanked the Australian government through the High Commission for not just making that bold decision but the investment that the Australian government is putting to help the capital city and the country project itself both regionally and globally.
“‘Our city, we are multi-cultural, multi- ethnic, multi- faith and multi-nationality. We are ready and will be ready to host players from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Cook Islands, United Kingdom and France even USA. If the Japanese want to play rugby league and Chinese too, they are welcome to come to Port Moresby and play in our team. They will feel at home.”
Governor said he stands ready to work with the Prime Minister and the team, the City Manager, PNGNRL Bid CEO, PNGRFL and all stakeholders to meet all the benchmark requirements to be ready in 2028.
Having games at the SHMS have several key advantages and include:
1. Historical significance – One of PNG’s most iconic stadiums.
2. Larger capacity – Can accommodate 25,000 spectators, compared to 15,000 at Santos National Football Stadium.
3. Permanent structure – Built with concrete and steel, whereas Santos relies on a temporary scaffold framework.
4. Prime location – Offers easy access for fans and officials.
5. Scenic views – Overlooks downtown Port Moresby, the sea, and surrounding villages like Hanuabada.
tvwan.com.pg