The 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season is set to feature an exciting lineup as both the Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika will host seven home matches each. The competition draw outlines a schedule of 14 games for each team, with two bye weekends in the extended 16-round competition. Notably, the Fijian Drua will introduce a third venue, the new Four R Stadium in Ba, adding to their existing two venues: the National Stadium in Suva and Churchill Park in Lautoka. This expansion demonstrates the growing enthusiasm and support for rugby in Fiji, as the Drua continue to build their presence in the Pacific region.
Fijian Drua’s head coach Glen Jackson has expressed excitement about facing Moana Pasifika in their opening match, emphasizing the importance of kicking off the season at home in front of a passionate fan base. This opening match promises to be a captivating spectacle, showcasing the camaraderie and rivalry between the Pacific teams. Moana Pasifika, coached by Fa’alogo Tana Umaga, looks forward to starting the season with a match in Fiji, highlighting the unique atmosphere that rugby brings to the region.
The return of the Super Round is a standout feature for 2026, marking its comeback over the Anzac weekend in round 11. Set to celebrate the 30th year of Super Rugby, this event will be held in Ōtautahi Christchurch at the newly constructed Te Kaha Stadium. The three-day festival will feature a series of intense matchups, including a highly anticipated double-header on the final day.
Both Moana Pasifika and the Fijian Drua have made strides in the Super Rugby competition, with Moana Pasifika aiming to capitalize on their previous successes and make an even bigger impact in 2026. Their return to Tonga for a match against the Chiefs is expected to draw significant local support, continuing their tradition of engaging fans across the Pacific Islands.
The 2026 season also introduces a revised playoff format to enhance the competition’s intensity. The updated structure includes a provision for the highest-ranked losing team from the qualifying finals to progress as a fourth seed, ensuring competitive balance and rewarding top-performing teams.
Overall, the upcoming season promises to be both thrilling and transformative for Super Rugby Pacific, with strategic changes aimed at enhancing the sport for players and fans alike. The expansion of venues and the return of popular events like the Super Round highlight the dynamic growth of rugby in the region, as teams like the Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika play a vital role in the sport’s continued evolution.
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