The Government of Samoa has withdrawn its recognition and financial support from Lakapi Samoa following months of consultations over internal problems affecting the national rugby union.
In a Cabinet release issued on Wednesday, Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polāta’ivao Fosi Schmidt said sufficient time and space had been given to the union to resolve its internal issues and reach an amicable outcome.
The Prime Minister said the decision includes the withdrawal of all government funding, assistance and other support previously provided to Lakapi Samoa.
He said the continuing division within the administration of the union, concerns raised by former players and coaches, and the declining position of Samoan rugby internationally had contributed to the Government’s decision.
Despite withdrawing its support from Lakapi Samoa, the Government said it remains committed to the future development of rugby in Samoa.
The Prime Minister said the Government would now consider alternative ways to support the sport, restore professional standards and help Samoa regain its rightful position in international rugby.
He said the decision was intended to assist with resetting Samoan rugby, while the Government continues supporting major development pathways and financial initiatives already in progress.
The Government did not provide further details about how rugby programmes and funding would be administered following the withdrawal of recognition from Lakapi Samoa.
This article is based on a Cabinet release issued by the Government of Samoa on 29 July 2026.
