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Moana Pasifika to cease operations after 2026 season

Moana Pasifika to end after 2026 season

Moana Pasifika will cease operations at the end of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season after failing to secure the financial backing needed to continue, bringing an abrupt end to the franchise after just five years.

The Pasifika Medical Association, which owns the club, confirmed it can meet costs for the current season but cannot sustain the estimated $10–12 million annual budget required beyond that, leaving players and staff—around 60 people—facing uncertain futures.

Club leadership described the decision as deeply difficult, pointing to ongoing financial pressures, structural challenges, and unequal conditions within the competition that hindered long-term viability.



Despite a mission to develop Pacific talent and a standout 2025 season, logistical barriers, limited resources, and inconsistent performance ultimately undermined the project, with the team now set to exit the competition unless a new owner emerges

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