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Willie Peters Named PNG Chiefs’ First NRL Coach, Will Leave Hull KR After 2026

His move starts the build of Papua New Guinea’s expansion team for a 2028 NRL launch.

Overview

  • Peters was unveiled Monday as the PNG Chiefs’ inaugural head coach, joining after Hull KR’s 2026 season and using 2027 to ready the club for its first campaign in 2028.
  • He leaves a revitalised Hull KR after delivering the 2025 domestic treble and a February win over Brisbane in the World Club Challenge.
  • Hull KR thanked Peters for advance notice, called him their most successful modern coach, and began a measured search for his successor.
  • Players learned of his decision earlier in the week and then thrashed St Helens 52-10 on Friday, signaling focus on this season’s goals.
  • The PNG franchise is backed by Australian government funding and plans for gated housing and tax incentives in Port Moresby, with reported funding figures differing across outlets.