Samoa could be banned from international rugby after the country’s government withdrew all recognition and financial support for its governing body, Lakapi Samoa.
According to the Samoan Observer, World Rugby has given the Samoan government 24 hours to reconsider its decision and accept a proposed review, or risk a four-year suspension from international rugby.
The reported ultimatum comes after Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Schmidt announced on Thursday that the government had decided to withdraw its recognition of Lakapi Samoa following “months of consultations”.
“The decision involves withdrawal of all government financial support and assistance previously provided to Lakapi Samoa,” he said.
The prime minister said the union had been given sufficient time to resolve “internal issues and division” affecting its administration, as well as concerns raised by former players and coaches.
He also cited the “deteriorating status of Samoan rugby on the world stage” as a factor behind the decision.
MORE: End of the road for Moana
The Samoan government has for several months discussed establishing a new Samoa National Rugby Union to replace Lakapi Samoa.
La’aulialemalietoa said his government “remains committed to the development of rugby in the future and will see what union it will give its support to in order to deliver the future development of the sport”.
He added that the union should “restore professional standards and Samoa’s rightful place in the global rugby arena”.
– AFP
Photo: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
The post Samoa faces four-year ban appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Samoa could be banned from international rugby after the country’s government withdrew all recognition and financial support for its governing body, Lakapi Samoa.
The post Samoa faces four-year ban appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
