A new funding agreement from the Australian Government aimed at enhancing rugby union in the Pacific is currently facing delays due to Samoa’s newly elected Prime Minister, La’aulialemalietoa Schmidt. While Fiji and Tonga have already signed the $150 million (US$100 million) deal, Prime Minister Schmidt is reportedly holding back amid demands for a restructuring of the Lakapi Samoa board, potentially including the ousting of chairman Tuilaʻepa Saʻilele Malielegaoi, a political opponent.
The Chief Executive of Tonga Rugby has called for both leaders to set aside their political rivalries for the greater benefit of all three Pacific rugby unions. He emphasized that the financial support from the Australian package would be a significant boost.
Plans are underway for new teams from Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga to potentially join Rugby Australia’s third-tier competition, contingent upon the finalization of the government deal with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). This proposal, which has been under negotiation for six months, has already secured approval from both the Tongan and Fijian governments.
Prime Minister Schmidt recently returned home from an extended medical treatment in New Zealand and, while sources indicate that he supports the proposal, official sign-off is still pending. The successful agreement would represent a notable increase in funding compared to the previous year’s allocation of $15 million (US$10 million) under the Pacific legacy program.
This investment comes in the backdrop of heightened geopolitical dynamics in the region, particularly following a recent $600 million (US$400 million) package designated for rugby league in Papua New Guinea. This announcement has spurred neighboring countries to seek partnerships with China, resulting in various agreements, such as a memorandum of understanding between Fiji Rugby Union and the Chinese Rugby Football Association, and a new national sports complex for Tonga funded by China.
As negotiations continue, Rugby Australia is preparing to extend invitations to the Pacific nations for participation in the new competition. While the Super Rugby AUS is set to launch in 2025, adding teams from these countries could double its length and further integrate Pacific rugby into professional play.
The rise of teams like the Drua, who transitioned into Super Rugby Pacific, illustrates the potential for success. Their journey has positively impacted the national team, the Flying Fijians, who recently achieved significant victories over major teams, including Australia and England. With the right support and opportunities, it is hoped that Tonga and Samoa could mirror this success and enhance their performance on the international stage—evident from Samoa’s recent qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Leave a comment