Rugby: Samoan government withdraws support for Lakapi Samoa

The Samoan government announced on Wednesday that it would be withdrawing its support for the national rugby union, Lakapi Samoa. The decision came after tensions between the Samoan prime minister and Lakapi Samoa escalated, with the government accusing the union of mismanaging funds and causing a decline in Samoan rugby. Prime Minister Laaulialelemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt had previously expressed unhappiness with the management of the game and threatened to create a rival body.

After months of consultations, the government decided to withdraw its recognition and support of Lakapi Samoa, following ample time given to resolve internal issues and division. Prime Minister Schmidt emphasized that the government remains committed to the development of rugby in the future and will determine which union to support moving forward.

The government's decision aims to reset Samoan rugby and ensure the sport regains its professional standards and rightful place on the global stage. The new Samoa Rugby and Football Union has been registered in Apia, but its launch has been postponed. Lakapi Samoa's board chairman, Namulauulu Sami Leota, cautioned that a rival union could lead to the sport's downfall in Samoa.

World Rugby clarified that the issue is an internal matter for Samoa to resolve. Former prime minister Tuilaʻepa Saʻilele Malielegaoi warned that setting up a rival union could have negative consequences for Samoan rugby, potentially leading to a suspension from World Rugby, similar to the situation faced by Fiji Rugby three years ago.