Miracle Faiilagi, who made history as the first player to sign a Super Rugby contract directly from Samoan club rugby, has been named captain of Moana Pasifika for the 2026 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. Faiilagi made a stunning entry into the world of Super Rugby in 2023 after impressing Moana Pasifika coaches at the World Rugby Pacific Combine in Suva the previous year.
Since his debut, he has evolved into a formidable talent both within Super Rugby and on the global stage as a Manu Samoa representative, showcasing his skill and dedication. “I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and I just give praise to God,” Faiilagi expressed, highlighting his faith as integral to his journey. He emphasized the significance of his captaincy, stating, “It’s an honor and a privilege to lead this team and the Pasifika people.”
Faiilagi hails from the villages of Vailele and Uafato in Samoa, and his rugby journey began with the Vailele Rugby Club. He gained recognition while representing Samoa in sevens rugby in 2021. Reflecting on his experiences, he noted, “Looking back, I was just a kid from the Islands that wanted to make the most of the opportunity,” and hopes to inspire young individuals in Samoa to pursue their dreams.
Despite facing challenges, including missing most of the 2024 Super Rugby season due to injury, Faiilagi bounced back fiercely in 2025. He contributed significantly to Moana Pasifika, scoring eight tries, including a standout hat-trick against the Hurricanes. Moreover, his performance earned him the Moana Pasifika Attacking Player of the Year Award—an acknowledgment he shared with teammate Kyren Taumoefolau.
With Faiilagi at the helm, Moana Pasifika aims to continue its growth and inspire future generations, embodying resilience and ambition as he leads both the team and the Pasifika community. Faiilagi’s journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and faith in achieving one’s dreams.
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