BSP steps up as major sponsor for World Cup

A significant milestone as BSP and NRL formalise their sponsorship of the Rugby League World Cup. *From L-R:* Caroline Yuen, NRL GM Marketing, Partnerships and Growth, BSP Group GM Corporate & Institution *(Image: Supplied)*

BANK South Pacific [BSP] has signed on as a major sponsor for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup [RLWC26], marking a massive boost for the tournament as the 100-day countdown to kick-off begins today.

The announcement cements the region’s leading financial institution as a principal partner for the global showpiece, which kicks off on October 15.

The month-long tournament will showcase the best of Pacific rugby league, featuring five South Pacific nations in Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands.

Local fans are set for a feast of international football, with the Santos National Football Stadium [NFS] in Port Moresby locked in to host key pool matches.

The PNG Kumuls will face Lebanon on October 17 before taking on powerhouse Samoa on October 24 at NFS.

In the women’s division, the PNG Orchids will enjoy home-ground advantage when they line up against France and regional rivals Fiji.

BSP Group Chief Executive Officer Mark Robinson said the bank’s deep roots in the region made the partnership a natural fit to foster community engagement and national pride.

“With teams participating in the Rugby League World Cup from PNG and the South Pacific, it’s natural for BSP to play a role as a major sponsor,” Robinson said.

“It reflects our purpose to champion prosperity in the South Pacific by supporting a platform that unites the region and helps inspire communities and national pride.”

Robinson added that the bank would back its sponsorship with a major marketing campaign and regional community events across its markets to bring the World Cup excitement closer to its customers and staff.

National Rugby League [NRL] Chief Executive Andrew Abdo welcomed BSP to the tournament's commercial stable, acknowledging the bank's long-term commitment to the code.

“Bank South Pacific has been a longstanding supporter of rugby league and the communities that sit at the heart of our game,” Abdo said.

“The Pacific is one of the game’s great success stories. The rise of Pacific nations on the international stage reflects the talent, passion and connection to rugby league right across the region.

"BSP’s support will help strengthen that progress as we build towards a landmark World Cup in 2026.”

With the 100-day countdown officially underway, BSP is urging communities, customers, and football followers across the country to rally behind the tournament and celebrate the spirit of excellence and teamwork.