New Zealand Rugby confirms Fiji Rugby & Moana Pasifika as preferred partners

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has taken another step forward in progressing its desire to include Pasifika teams in future professional rugby competitions with an announcement at the Pasifika Business Trust Awards.

The Fiji Rugby Union and Moana Pasifika have now been formally acknowledged as the preferred partners to further explore the viability of Pasifika teams for 2022 and beyond. 

Chris Lendrum, NZR General Manager Professional Rugby & Performance said:

“New Zealand Rugby has been consistent in its desire to include a Pasifika team in future professional rugby competitions and we are thrilled to be taking these next steps with Fiji and Moana Pasifika. 

"We are now focused on working with these organisations, the relevant national unions and other partners on the optimal models for the establishment of new teams - to ensure they have every chance of success.

"There is a lot of work to do for both parties but we are excited by the potential to continue explorations together."

More announcements about the future of professional club competitions from 2022 onwards will be made soon, a statement said.