# PNG Chiefs clear to launch after court blocks injunction

> New Zealand Rugby's bid to stop the NRL's new PNG team using the Chiefs name has failed in court, clearing the way for Wednesday's logo reveal.
- Title: PNG Chiefs clear to launch after court blocks injunction · Abc
- Summary: New Zealand Rugby's bid to stop the NRL's new PNG team using the Chiefs name has failed in court, clearing the way for Wednesday's logo reveal. New Zealand's…
- Keywords: png chiefs, nrl, new zealand rugby, high court, trademark dispute, rugby league, news, politics, PNG, Chiefs, clear, launch
- Source: Abc — https://abc.net.au/news/2026-10-16/png-chiefs-to-go-ahead-with-logo-launch-after-court-decision/107277002
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: png chiefs, nrl, new zealand rugby, high court, trademark dispute, rugby league, news, politics
## Court blocks New Zealand Rugby's injunction
New Zealand's High Court rejected an interim injunction application from New Zealand Rugby against the PNG Chiefs NRL franchise using the Chiefs name.
## NZR claimed brand confusion and damage
New Zealand Rugby argued that the PNG team's use of the Chiefs name, shared with its long-standing Super Rugby Pacific outfit, would cause confusion and damage the brand.
## Judge sided with expansion franchise
The Wellington judge turned down the application after hearing an injunction could harm the NRL expansion outfit's efforts to attract players ahead of a two thousand twenty-eight debut.
## PNG Chiefs proceed with Wednesday launch
The PNG Chiefs are set to reveal their jersey and logo in Port Moresby on Wednesday. CEO Lorna McPherson welcomed the court decision.

> The PNG Chiefs welcome today's decision in the New Zealand High Court and look forward to the launch of our inaugural logo and supporter jersey in Port Moresby on Wednesday.
## Legal battle continues in both countries
New Zealand Rugby's application for a final injunction remains before the court. The ARLC and NZR are considering legal action in Australia as the dispute continues.
## Key takeaway

New Zealand's High Court rejected an interim injunction from New Zealand Rugby against the PNG Chiefs NRL franchise, allowing the team to proceed with its logo and jersey launch on Wednesday.