The draw for the highly anticipated 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup has been officially unveiled, sparking excitement among rugby league fans across Papua New Guinea and marking the countdown to another action-packed season.
The 2026 competition promises fierce rivalries, memorable matchups and expanded opportunities for supporters to follow their favourite local stars, with fixtures scheduled across major rugby league centres nationwide.
Fans in Madang will be among the first to feel the excitement, with the Kandes Rugby League Club set to open their campaign with a Round 1 home clash. The fixture is expected to energize the local community and set the tone for the season ahead.
One of the headline fixtures of the opening round will see reigning premiers Lae Snax Tigers begin their title defence against the Kroton Hela Wigmen. The marquee match will form part of a triple-header in Port Moresby, delivering a full day of top-tier rugby league action in the capital.
The season will culminate with the Grand Final scheduled for 13 September, where the competition’s top teams will battle for premiership honours. Adding to the excitement, two Super Rounds have been confirmed, with Round 3 to be hosted in Goroka and Round 16 in Lae, bringing elite-level rugby league closer to fans in key heartlands of the sport.
Organizers say the 2026 draw has been designed to strengthen the connection between clubs and supporters by increasing matches in regional centres and providing greater access to live rugby league action.
Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Chairman Adrian Chow thanked sponsors and shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming season.
“On behalf of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, I extend my heartfelt thanks to our sponsors who make this competition possible. The 2026 season promises to deliver spectacular games, skills and excitement with unforgettable moments for our incredible fans to enjoy. We are excited to see whole rugby league communities across PNG come together with rugby league spirit, and we look forward to a year of thrilling competition and passion as the game continues growing,” said Chow.
With the draw now confirmed, anticipation is building for what promises to be another outstanding year of rugby league.
Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars, rally behind their teams and experience the thrill of live matches as the 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup gets underway.
