Samoa

Manu Samoa Captain and Coach Write to PM as Ban Fears Grow

Theo McFarland and Lemalu Tusiata Pisi have appealed directly to Samoa's prime minister to resolve the Lakapi Samoa crisis, warning that World Rugby sanctions could cost the country its place at the 2027 World Cup.

Rugby Union · 8/1/2026

Samoa Face Four-Year Ban as Government Cuts Rugby Union Ties

World Rugby has given the Samoan government until Friday to accept a review of its decision to withdraw recognition from Lakapi Samoa, with a four-year suspension from international rugby the alternative.

Rugby Union · 7/30/2026

'A Sneak Peek of What's Coming': Newcastle Lands Japan-Ireland Test as RWC 2027 Build-Up

Newcastle has been confirmed as the venue for a Japan v Ireland international Test on Saturday 11 July 2026, with NSW ministers framing the fixture as a 'sneak peek' of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The Hunter region city will host four pool matches at the global tournament, including Japan v Samoa.

Rugby Union · 4/23/2026

'Money Talks': HG Rugby Warns Super Rugby Is Losing the War With the NRL After Moana Pasifika Collapse

Rugby stats analyst Brendan Shields tells the HG Rugby podcast that Super Rugby's fight for relevance against rugby league is now its defining battle, with Moana Pasifika's exit a symptom of a deeper financial crisis — and a blow to Samoan rugby before the World Cup.

Rugby Union · 4/19/2026

Where Do Tongan and Samoan Players Go After Moana Pasifika? Wasiliev Has a Theory

Australian rugby pundit Nick Wasiliev argues that the collapse of Moana Pasifika has not killed Pacific opportunities, but says the path now runs through New Zealand, France, Japan and a possible Super Rugby AU re-build.

Rugby Union · 4/17/2026