The 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season was launched in Port Moresby yesterday.
The launch brought together participating clubs, sponsors, partners, media and invited guests to mark the start of another season of Papua New Guinea’s premier professional rugby league competition.
The commencement of the season signals the continuation of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, supported by a long‐standing partnership between Digicel PNG and ExxonMobil PNG, which continues to play a significant role in strengthening elite competition, expanding development pathways and delivering positive community outcomes across the country.
At the event, Digicel PNG reaffirmed its long‐standing principal sponsorship of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, extending more than 15 years of continuous investment in Papua New Guinea’s premier professional rugby league competition.
Speaking at the launch, Digicel PNG Head of Brand and Communication, Salome Delabu, said rugby league plays a defining role in connecting people and communities across Papua New Guinea.
“Rugby league is more than a game in Papua New Guinea, it is how communities connect, how families come together, and how young people find purpose, identity and hope. That is why Digicel PNG remains committed to this competition and the role it plays in creating opportunity,” she said.
Ms Delabu said Digicel PNG’s investment in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup reflects the main purpose, shared across the business, of connecting people to what matters most.
“Being Better Connected means leveraging our technology and coverage to help to create real opportunities for young Papua New Guineans. Through the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, we are helping to creating pathways that turn connection into opportunity and ambition into real, lasting outcomes,” she said.
Digicel PNG acknowledged the contribution of players, coaches, club officials, match officials and sponsors who support the competition, and congratulated the Lae Snax Tigers as reigning General premiers. Digicel PNG also extended its appreciation to competition administrators and officials for their continued professionalism and commitment to the development of the game.
As the 2026 season approaches kick‐off, Digicel PNG looks forward to standing with fans, players and partners throughout what is expected to be another competitive and high‐quality Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.