PNG Chiefs announce Johnston’s signing

The PNG Chiefs held a press conference on Wednesday, 5 May 2026, at Santos National Football Stadium to officially announce the signing of Alex Johnston as Chief 002. 

Last week, it was rumored that Johnston had signed with the Chiefs, becoming the team's first Chief. However, the speculation was brushed aside by CEO Lorna McPherson. 

A few days later, the Chiefs confirmed the signing of Jarome Luai as the first player to join the inaugural franchise. 

One week later, the Chiefs announced that Johnston had signed a one-year deal, becoming the first Papua New Guinean to join Chief 001 Luai.

The NRL’s greatest try-scorer of all time is set to play a key role in shaping the identity and success of the Chiefs as they build towards the inaugural NRL campaign in 2028.  

The PNG Chiefs football General Manager, Michael Chammas, revealed the signing of Johnston, signifying a special moment for the club.

“Alex Johnston is the greatest try scorer in the history of our game and a Papua New Guinean icon,” said Chammas. 

“A player who has represented his country with pride on the international stage and carried the hopes of the PNG people throughout a remarkable career. 

“And now, he is coming home. He is the first Papua New Guinean player to sign with the PNG Chiefs - the first of many.” 

Mr. Chammas added that the Chiefs are appreciative of South Sydney Rabbitohs for allowing Johnston to explore his options early, though he has a year left to complete his contract.

“We would like to thank the South Sydney Rabbitohs for their professionalism throughout this process and their willingness to allow Alex the ability to explore his future at the Chiefs, despite being contracted with the club for another 18 months,” he said. 

Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson said: “This is exactly what we promised — to build a team that the people of PNG can be proud of and one that can compete with the best from day one.

“Alex is a record holder, we’ve seen what he can achieve, and everyone knows that he is a proven performer, but just as importantly, he’s a great person who represents the values of our club. 

“Alex has been a tremendous ambassador for the game and the perfect ambassador for PNG, so bringing Alex home to the Chiefs feels right.

“We now have players 001 and 002 locked in, and we’re only getting started. There’s real belief and excitement with building around what we’re creating.”

Johnston was overwhelmed with the signing: “I’m guessing you all know what I’m about to announce for the 2028 season - I’m proudly signing with the PNG Chiefs.

“It’s something that my family and I are really looking forward to. I’ve obviously been a one-club player my whole career, and it was a big decision to make.

“PNG coming into the NRL was sort of a blessing in disguise. If I were going to play for another NRL club, PNG coming in was meant to be.

“I look forward to making the move, but I’ve obviously got another year and a half here at South Sydney, and a couple of premierships would be nice, and off we go from there.” 

Johnston's inclusion adds immediate firepower to the Chiefs’ roster and signals the club’s commitment to building a dynamic, attacking brand of football ahead of its entry in the NRL by 2028. 

The try-scoring ace will remain with the South Sydney Rabbitohs and fulfill his contract next year before moving to the Chiefs in 2028.