All Blacks legend Tana Umaga warns that Moana Pasifika’s potential departure from Super Rugby Pacific could drive Samoa and Tonga toward rugby league, jeopardizing their future Rugby World Cup qualifications.

Moana Pasifika’s Uncertain Future

Umaga, outgoing coach of Moana Pasifika, voiced these concerns following his team’s loss to the NSW Waratahs in Sydney. After five seasons, the franchise faces collapse as owners withdraw funding at season’s end. Players and staff cling to hope amid talks between New Zealand Rugby and potential investors, including one group negotiating to acquire the license.

Launched in 2022 with World Rugby backing, Moana Pasifika provides high-level play for Samoan and Tongan talents, based in Auckland due to logistical challenges. Despite struggles, Umaga highlights its role as a crucial development pathway.

Bridging the International Gap

Umaga emphasizes the wide gap in international standings for Samoa and Tonga. “The gap between where we are currently in terms of Samoa and Tonga internationally to where we need to get to is very big,” he states. “And if we don’t have opportunities like Moana to keep bridging that gap, then it’s going to be tough.”

Samoa barely qualified for the last World Cup, with Tonga scraping through previously. Without such platforms, Umaga fears they may miss future tournaments.

Rugby League’s Growing Threat

Rugby league gains traction in both nations, bolstered by NRL expansion funding from the Australian government, including the Papua New Guinea Chiefs deal. Pacific Islanders comprise nearly 40% of NRL players, drawn by its popularity and investment.

“If there’s nothing to compete against, then I’m sure that [league taking over] is probably something that we’ve got to be thinking about. That’s the real risk,” Umaga warns. “Rugby league’s got a great product at the moment, and it’s very popular. They’ve got a lot of money that’s being put into it, and they’re all over the islands promoting it.”

Without elite rugby pathways, retaining top talent becomes challenging, potentially shifting the balance.

Future Pathways and Funding

Tonga and Samoa expect $50 million each over five years from Australian government funding. Plans include their teams in an expanded Super Rugby AUS, mirroring Fiji Drua’s rise via the National Rugby Championship.

Umaga supports this: “To make rugby stronger, you’ve got to have these pathways and these opportunities for these players to learn how to be better professionals and how to play in high-performance environments.” He stresses off-field professionalization beyond weekly games.

Wallabies Prop Faces Injury Setback

Meanwhile, Wallabies prop Angus Bell sustains a left ankle injury playing for Ulster against Leinster in the United Rugby Championship. On sabbatical from Australian rugby, Bell risks missing July Tests. Previously plagued by foot issues, he enjoyed a strong 2025 season. Scans will determine his recovery timeline.