World Rugby threatens four year ban on Samoa union

The governing body for rugby in Samoa, Lakapi Samoa, faces a suspension from international competition after the Samoan government withdrew all recognition and financial support from the organization. World Rugby has reportedly given the government an ultimatum, demanding that it accept a proposed review of this decision by Friday, July 31, 2026, or risk the nation being banned for four years, which would imperil its participation in the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt announced the government's position in a press statement on Thursday, July 30, stating that all government funding and assistance to Lakapi Samoa would be withdrawn. He said the union had been given sufficient time to resolve unresolved internal issues, divisive administration, and concerns from former players and coaches, and cited the "deteriorating status of Samoan rugby on the world stage" as a key factor. The announcement came a day before Lakapi Samoa was scheduled to meet with a visiting World Rugby delegation.

This action is the culmination of a bitter, months-long dispute between the government and the rugby board. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa...