Moana Pasifika have confirmed they will disband at the end of the 2026 season, bringing an end to the Pacific franchise’s short but significant presence in Super Rugby.
Reports of the team’s exit from Super Rugby Pacific emerged earlier amid ongoing financial uncertainty surrounding the club’s future.
In a statement, Moana Pasifika Chair Dr Kiki Maoate described the decision as one of the most difficult in the organisation’s history.
Formed in 2022, Moana Pasifika entered the revamped Super Rugby competition alongside the Fijian Drua, representing Pacific Island talent on a professional stage.
Dr Maoate says the franchise had played a vital role in developing pathways and opportunities for Pacific athletes across multiple sporting codes.
The concept for the team was first introduced in 2020, when a Moana Pasifika side faced the Māori All Blacks in an exhibition match before being formally admitted into the competition in 2021.
Among its high-profile signings was Ardie Savea, who joined the franchise in 2025 and had been set to return in 2027 following a sabbatical.
The club also helped launch the careers of emerging talents such as Timoci Tavatavanawai, Miracle Faiilagi and Kyren Taumoefolau.
Despite these achievements, Dr Maoate confirmed operations would cease at the conclusion of the current season, with the side presently sitting at the bottom of the competition standings.
Moana Pasifika will continue their campaign this week, taking on the NSW Waratahs at 9.35pm in Sydney on Friday.
In another game on Friday, the Blues will meet the Highlanders at 7.05pm.
On Saturday, the Chiefs host the Hurricanes at 7.05pm, the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will meet Brumbies at 9.35pm, while the Force meet the Crusaders at 11.55pm.
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