Rugby World Cup regular could be chucked out as crisis deepens

Lakapi Samoa are currently recognised as Samoa’s governing union, but the organisation was plunged into a major governance crisis a couple of weeks ago after the government withdrew its recognition and financial backing.

The decision was reportedly made because of internal divisions within the organisation, as well as concerns surrounding the administration of rugby in the country.

According to RNZ, media reports from Apia claim that the new Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU), which will operate as a rival to Lakapi Samoa, was officially launched at the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Hotel last Friday evening.

There are also reports that Lakapi Samoa chairman Afioga Namulauulu Papali'i Leota Sami Leota and members of his board have stepped aside while a review takes place.

Talamua Online News reported that the new union is being led by former Manu Samoa representative Matafeo George Latu, who has taken on the role of chairman.

The report also stated that the SRFU has the backing of 16 sub-unions, with each represented by their respective president at the launch.

RNZ Pacific sources have claimed that World Rugby issued conditions to the Samoan government. However, World Rugby has denied issuing an ultimatum, instead stating that it was "in dialogue with all parties in a mediator role".

Former Samoa prime minister Tuilaʻepa Saʻilele Malielegaoi, who also served as board chairman before resigning earlier this year, had previously warned that the creation of a rival union and government interference could have serious consequences for Samoan rugby.

He warned that such actions could potentially result in Samoa being suspended by World Rugby.

World Rugby bye-law 6h states: "A Member Union may be suspended or expelled from World Rugby membership pursuant to these Bye-Laws and/or the Regulations if state authorities interfere in its affairs in such a manner that:

"(i) it may no longer be considered as fully responsible for the organisation of rugby related matters in its territory; or

(ii) in the opinion of Council or the Executive Board it is no longer in a position to perform its constitutional and regulatory tasks in an appropriate manner."

The government's decision to withdraw funding, combined with its involvement in the creation of a rival union, could potentially fall under this bye-law and leave Samoa facing the prospect of suspension from World Rugby.

Such a suspension could have major consequences for Manu Samoa, with the country potentially being removed from the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Samoa have been drawn alongside France, Japan and the USA in Pool E, but their participation could be placed in doubt if World Rugby takes action.

They have qualified for every World Cup since 1991, with their best performances coming in 1991 and 1995 where they reached the quarter-finals.

Having finished ahead of second-placed Belgium in the Final Qualifying Tournament to secure their place at the World Cup, Belgium would likely be the leading candidate to replace Samoa should they be removed.

That would give Belgium the opportunity to qualify for the Rugby World Cup for the first time in their history.

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Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
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Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.

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Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
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