Super Rugby club Moana Pasifika to fold after 2026 season in 'heartbreaking decision'
Moana Pasifika have confirmed that the 2026 Super Rugby season will be the club's last.
After five years in the competition, the Auckland-based team released a statement on Wednesday saying it had "made the difficult and heartbreaking decision to disband."
The vision of the club was to play regular home games in Samoa and Tonga but that has not eventuated for a variety of reasons.
Watch the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season with every match streaming live and on demand on the home of rugby, Stan Sport
Ardie Savea of Moana Pasifika talks to his team. Getty
"This is one of the hardest decisions we have ever made. We are immensely proud of our players, staff, and the community who have supported our team over the years," Moana Pasifika chair Kiki Maoate said.
"Across our rugby, pathways and community programmes, we have been able to support a growing hub of Pacific talent across multiple sporting codes, both locally and in the Pacific region. This is something we are extremely proud of and will continue to support and advocate for as best we can.
"Our commitment now is to ensure a smooth transition for everyone affected and to celebrate our legacy by finishing the season strong."
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New All Blacks defence coach Tana Umaga smiles before a press conference. Getty
Talismanic captain Ardie Savea's departure to Japan was a major blow while coach Tana Umaga is joining Dave Rennie's All Blacks staff after the 2026 campaign.
"We acknowledge our loyal fans for standing by us through the highs and lows – your support has meant everything to us, especially our players. We ask that you stand by your team today," Maoate said.
"Our story has been one of resilience – not just as a franchise, but as Pacific people. While this will be devastating news to process, we continue to look ahead and navigate these next steps together, just as our people always have.
The club said it would "provide support to all players and staff" for the remainder of the season.
Super Rugby is now likely to feature 10 teams next season - five from New Zealand, four from Australia and Fijian Drua.
Moana play the NSW Waratahs in Sydney on Friday with Prince Harry to be in the crowd at Allianz Stadium.
