Super Rugby Pacific will be a 10 team competition next season after Moana Pasifika’s exit was confirmed on Wednesday. New Zealand Rugby said it “explored every possibility” with “several interested parties” in taking over the participation licence of the Auckland-based club.
But none of the potential owners were able to “satisfy both the capital and business plan requirements” necessary to secure the licence. Moana entered the competition in 2022 with a vision of playing the majority of home games in Samoa and Tonga.
But that never eventuated and Moana struggled to win games and draw crowds. “We want to be clear, the door remains open beyond 2027,” NZR chief financial officer Chris Kinraid said. “We firmly believe a team can be based in the Pacific Islands and that a sustainable long-term solution can be found in the future. We remain open and willing to engage with anyone who can meet the financial and commercial requirements. “We also acknowledge the engagement of Minister Winston Peters and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the recognition of the role rugby can play in the Pacific region. “This has been a difficult time for the Moana Pasifika players, management and fans, and the communities that supported them. A lot of hard work has gone into looking at all possibilities for next season. Unfortunately, the long-term financial requirements to participate in the competition could not be met.” Kinraid said a competitive and sustainable team needed commercial revenue of more than NZ$10 million ($8.19m), in addition to broadcast revenue, and at least NZ$15 million ($12.29m) “in committed capital to support its business plan and maintain appropriate cash reserves.” The announcement means the 2027 season will feature five teams from New Zealand teams, four from Australia and the Fijian Drua.
Expansion is possible from 2028. “The licence available through this process was specifically for a team representing Moana Pasifika as a pathway for Tonga and Samoa from 2027. This was not a process to establish a new team or enter a new market,” Kinraid added. “We are aware of credible interest in future participation and expansion in Super Rugby Pacific, including opportunities in new markets and the Pacific. We see that as a positive sign for current outlook and the long-term strength and attractiveness of the competition. “Any future expansion of Super Rugby Pacific would need to be considered in partnership with Rugby Australia, Super Rugby Pacific and as part of a broader competition strategy.” Super Rugby will confirm the 2027 competition format “in the coming weeks.” The 2026 format had six of 11 teams qualifying for the finals series.
