‘Mind-blowing hypocrisy’: NRL fires back at NZ Rugby in legal drama over PNG Chiefs

ARLC Executive Chairman Peter V’landys has criticized New Zealand Rugby after the organization initiated legal action in the High Court of New Zealand over the NRL's upcoming 19th franchise, the PNG Chiefs. NZ Rugby claims the name infringes on its Super Rugby franchise's trademark and poses a risk of market confusion across Australia and New Zealand. V'landys pledged to vigorously defend the name, labeling NZ Rugby's stance as hypocritical.

NZ Rugby CEO Steve Lancaster and Waikato Chiefs chief executive Simon Graafhuis stated the lawsuit is intended to safeguard a 30-year brand identity competing for the same audience. In response, V'landys highlighted that rugby union previously used the Auckland Blues name despite the prior existence of the NSW Blues, suggesting rugby union feels threatened by rugby league's rising popularity.