Judge rejects NZ Rugby injunction, NRL keeps PNG Chiefs name for 2028 debut

Judge Karen Grau turned down New Zealand Rugby's request for an urgent injunction, allowing the NRL to keep the PNG Chiefs name for its 18th team debut in 2028.

What Happened

The two‑hour hearing in Wellington’s High Court saw Justice Grau reject the bid after hearing that an injunction could hurt the new PNG team’s player recruitment ahead of its November 1 launch. NZ Rugby had argued the name would damage the long‑standing Chiefs brand and cause confusion.

Reaction

NZ Rugby barrister Earl Gray said the NRL was negligent for not checking New Zealand’s intellectual‑property rights, accusing the league of “thumb[ing] their noses at New Zealand and its laws.” NRL barrister Clive Elliott warned that a ruling against the league could create doubt over the club’s legitimacy and scare players away during the critical free‑agency period. PNG chief executive Lorna McPherson said the team aims to have 12 players signed by Christmas. NZ Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster said the decision does not judge the strength of their case and that they remain committed to protecting the Chiefs brand.

What’s Next

Justice Grau ordered the parties to “duke it out” in a full hearing early next year. If the NRL loses, it may have to re‑brand and apologize for using the PNG Chiefs name. The league has offered to geo‑block Chiefs‑related content on its New Zealand social‑media channels.

Context

Trademark disputes can halt a sports franchise’s branding and affect player sign‑ups. The PNG Chiefs rely on a $600 million Australian government package and need a clear identity to attract talent before their 2028 season.