'Devastating news': Moana Pasifika to disband at end of season - 1News
After five years in Super Rugby, the team will pull out of the competition.
www.1news.co.nzHere are the latest updates on Moana Pasifika.
- Moana Pasifika are facing a high-stakes situation as reports indicate they may exit Super Rugby Pacific after the 2026 season due to financial viability concerns. Multiple outlets have highlighted that the club’s owners reportedly won’t fund beyond this year, putting the team’s future in jeopardy. This has generated significant uncertainty for players and staff as the season progresses.[1][2][3]
- Official confirmations from Moana Pasifika and New Zealand Rugby point to the club disbanding after 2026 if a viable financial solution isn’t found, with statements emphasizing a difficult but necessary decision and a commitment to finishing the season strongly. NZR has expressed support for a transition plan for those affected.[2][3]
- In the immediate term, the club is completing the 2026 season under current stewardship while seeking a pathway that preserves Pacific rugby talent pipelines; however, sponsorship gaps and home venue constraints have been cited as contributing factors to the broader financial challenge.[1][2]
Illustration: a concise snapshot of the situation shows the club at 1-7 this season with mounting financial pressures, and a formal announcement to conclude operations after 2026 if no buyer or backer steps forward.[2][1]
If you’d like, I can pull the latest statements from Moana Pasifika and NZR and summarize them, or track any new developments as they’re published.