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Moana Pasifika head coach Tana Umaga warns that the collapse of his Super Rugby franchise could drain talent from rugby union to rugby league in the Pacific. This week, ownership confirmed Moana Pasifika will not receive funding beyond the current season, labeling the operation “unviable.”
Founded to represent Samoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands, Moana joined Super Rugby Pacific alongside the Fijian Drua in 2022. Initially intended to be based in Samoa, the team has operated from Auckland for five seasons, with just a couple of games played on home soil.
The franchise operates on an annual budget exceeding $7 million, and despite an encouraging 2025 campaign, Moana now sits at the bottom of the 11-team table with only four points from nine matches. Umaga, a trailblazer for Samoan players in rugby, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a Pasifika presence in the sport, expressing concern over the future competitiveness of Samoa and Tonga’s Test teams.
He highlights that many emerging players are part of Moana Pasifika's roster, stating, “Without Moana to bridge that gap, it’s going to be tough.” Utility back William Havili echoes these sentiments, reflecting on the impact of the franchise on his career and the challenges facing his teammates from Tonga and Samoa.
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