World Rugby says no ultimatum given to Samoa over governance fiasco

World Rugby has refuted claims that it threatened Samoa with a ban from international competition over unresolved sports governance issues. Reports had suggested the global governing body issued an ultimatum to Samoa to rectify problems concerning which body governs rugby in the country.

Earlier this year, Samoa's Prime Minister La'aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt announced the establishment of a rival union to take over from the existing Lakapi Samoa (Samoa Rugby Union). This move has led to a dispute over the sport's leadership.

World Rugby confirmed it is involved in mediating the situation at Lakapi Samoa. A spokesperson stated, "We are in active and constructive dialogue with all parties and remain focused on a positive resolution." The organization denied reports of an ultimatum, emphasizing its commitment to finding a solution.

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We are in active and constructive dialogue with all parties and remain focused on a positive resolution.

Samoa's opposition leader, Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi, had previously called the government's actions a "dirty political move" and suggested Samoa risked suspension. He stepped down as chairman of the Samoa Rugby Union earlier this year amid a political standoff with the current prime minister, which had threatened funding programs.

The crisis in Samoan rugby bears similarities to governance issues that led to Fiji being temporarily banned from the World Rugby Council in 2023. Fiji's suspension lasted nearly 15 months before reinstatement, though the union has faced further disputes.

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a dirty political move