‘No longer viable’: Super Rugby team Moana Pasifika to be axed at end of season

Moana Pasifika have confirmed the Super Rugby franchise will fold at the end of the season, citing “financial, operational, and strategic realities”.

“Despite the tireless dedication of players, staff, and supporters, it is no longer viable to continue the franchise at this level of competition,” the team said in a statement.

The franchise was founded in 2020 after calls for many years for more Pacific involvement in Super Rugby.

The team focused on players of Samoan, Tongan and Cook Islands descent, and was based in Auckland.

A second Pacific-based team, Fijian Drua, will remain in the competition.

Moana Pasifika chair Dr Kiki Maoate said disbanding the franchise was “one of the hardest decisions we have ever made”.

“We are immensely proud of our players, staff, and the community who have supported our team over the years,” Maoate said.

“Our commitment now is to ensure a smooth transition for everyone affected and to celebrate our legacy by finishing the season strong.”

The team’s 60 players and staff, led by coach Tana Umaga, were informed of the closure on Tuesday.

Moana Pasifika is owned by the Pasifika Medical Association, and the New Zealand Herald reported running costs are more than $10m each year.

On the PMA website, it said the mission of Moana Pasifika is “to champion the collective power of Pacific people and culture and put it on a global stage, encouraging participation in sport and development and support of Pacific youth”.