World Rugby implements interim governance for Samoa rugby

World Rugby has announced interim measures to manage Samoan rugby following a period of institutional crisis and governance disputes. As part of a compromise reached between World Rugby, the Samoan government, and rugby authorities, Lakapi Samoa has voluntarily suspended itself from the World Rugby Council.

To address concerns regarding the national union, a Samoan-led independent review and a verification of membership criteria will be conducted. During this period, the Samoa Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) will oversee high-performance rugby and the preparation of national teams. This arrangement is intended to ensure that national selections remain active and can continue preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The dispute stemmed from tensions between Lakapi Samoa and the Samoan government, which had previously supported a rival governing body. While high-performance management is being transitioned to SASNOC, domestic competitions are expected to continue without interruption. Lakapi Samoa's return to the World Rugby Council will require a formal request and subsequent approval from the Executive Board.