Jarome Luai confirms PNG move as he insists 'we broke no rules' in shock NRL switch

Jarome Luai has confirmed his blockbuster move to Papua New Guinea’s incoming NRL franchise.

The Sāmoan international told journalists on Wednesday the decision was made with his family and future in mind, not financial gain.

His announcement comes after a whirlwind week that has shaken the national rugby league competition.

The Wests Tigers co-captain will join the PNG Chiefs from the 2028 season but will remain at the Tigers until the end of 2027 after triggering an option in his contract.

Luai fronted the media on Wednesday, just a day after telling teammates at training that he had made his decision.

“The way my contract works and how it was structured, we broke no rules throughout the process, and I think that’s what people don’t really understand as well,” he said.

The move is a major early win for the NRL’s newest expansion club, which has been building its player base with the help of tax-free salary incentives and strong backing from PNG leadership.

Luai met with PNG officials, including Prime Minister James Marape, during a visit last week that he says helped shape his thinking. Marape is currently in China and returns home on Friday.

Jarome Luai speaks to media after confirming his move to Papua New Guinea’s new NRL franchise from 2028. Photo/screengrab/FoxSports

Luai said the decision came down to a bigger vision for both his family and the Pacific region.

“It was a great experience. My family and my son got the chance to come with me and being there after all of that, it’s probably what got it sealed.

“There’s some really good people behind all of that, and it’s going to work, and it’s going to be real.

“Being Polynesian, there’s a lot of similarities… what that team’s eventually going to do for those people is just grow a nation. That’s something that resonated with me.”

A spokesperson for the PNG Chiefs said Luai’s signing reflected the vision of the new franchise ahead of its NRL entry.

“This is about building something meaningful for Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific,” the spokesperson said. “We are focused on creating opportunity, pride and long-term pathways for our people through rugby league.”

Luai has played 13 tests for the Toa Sāmoa since making his debut against Tonga on 4 November 2017. Photo/Photosport/Allan McKenzie

Luai rejected suggestions the deal was driven by money despite reports linking the move to significant financial incentives.

While he admitted money may have helped start discussions, he insisted it was not the reason he signed.

“It was a whirlwind to be honest with you,” he said. “It happened pretty quickly.

“Everyone wants me to say tax-free and how appealing that is from the outside in. But that’s not what got the deal signed

“Unless you get over there and experience it for yourself, you won’t really know yet.”

The Tigers star said he also had a “really difficult” conversation with coach Benji Marshall but stressed their relationship remains strong.

Watch Jarome Luai in Port Moresby during a visit to PNG last week.

“We had a good chat, me and coach, and I think he understands how much this place actually means for me,” Luai said.

“He reinforced to me I’m here for 18 months. I’m here for another season, a full season, and we’ve got some special things to do before I leave and I’m excited for the future.”

Marshall said Luai had been open and respectful throughout the process, and that the club’s focus remained on the present season.

“We’ve had honest conversations the whole way through,” Marshall said. “Jarome has been clear with me and the playing group, and right now he’s fully committed to what we’re building here this season.”

Luai also addressed his “team first” social media post during the Lachlan Galvin contract situation, saying the two matters should not be compared.

“It’s a tricky one, two different situations,” he said. “I know the team-first thing is getting thrown around a bit. I’m here for 18 months.

"I live and breathe team-first. They took it really well,” he said.

He told teammates on Tuesday morning before training, saying the reaction in camp was supportive.

Despite the off-field headlines, Luai insists his focus remains on finishing strong with the Tigers, who are enjoying a strong season under Marshall.

Luai says the real work is still ahead. “I want to move forward,” he said.

“I’ve got a job to do this weekend. This club will be in a great position when I leave.

For the PNG Chiefs, the signing is being seen as a major statement ahead of their entry into the elite competition and a sign of the growing pull of rugby league in the Pacific.