The Australian Rugby League Commission says it will not back down over the name of the NRL's new PNG Chiefs team, despite a legal challenge from New Zealand Rugby, RNZ reports.
New Zealand Rugby argues that the name threatens its trademarked Chiefs brand, used by its Super Rugby franchise. Last week New Zealand's High Court refused its request for an interim injunction, but a full hearing is expected in February or March.
Commissioner Peter Beattie said the name was chosen by Papua New Guinea through a public competition and would stay. The team launched its logo and jersey in Port Moresby this week ahead of its first NRL season in 2028. Justice Karen Grau said rebranding now would be "next to impossible". The league has agreed to promote the team's full name and to geo-block some digital content in New Zealand.
Source: RNZ National