World Rugby chairman Brett Robinson firmly asserted that “Rugby is the game of the Pacific,” in response to concerns raised by Pacific rugby leaders regarding the NRL’s $600 million investment in the region. This deal between the Australian and Papua New Guinea governments casts a significant light on the Pacific sporting landscape, particularly with speculation that the PNG franchise may seek to recruit rugby union players from rugby strongholds like Samoa, Fiji, and Tonga.
Fiji Rugby’s acting CEO, Koli Sewabu, expressed fears that the NRL’s move could undermine the integrity of rugby union in the region, viewing it as a potential threat to the traditional XV and 7s formats. In light of the approaching 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, Robinson emphasised rugby’s deep roots within Pacific nations, citing the fervent local support for the sport. He referred to personal experiences, including sitting alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during a match, illustrating the sport’s patriotic ties across the region.
Robinson acknowledged the NRL’s ambition but reiterated rugby’s longstanding legacy in Fiji and the overall Pacific, noting Fiji’s historical achievements in the Rugby World Cup and the prominence of women’s teams. He highlighted World Rugby’s substantial investment in Pacific rugby, underscoring the significance of fostering local talent and promoting rugby’s community spirit.
The impending Rugby World Cup is set to draw considerable interest from Pacific communities, both domestically in Australia and throughout the islands. While Robinson respects the NRL’s initiatives, he ardently defended rugby as the primary sport across these nations, noting its cultural and social importance. He concluded by reiterating rugby’s unique capacity to foster connections and enrich lives globally, appealing for recognition of its foundational place in Pacific sport.
Robinson’s firm stance serves as a rallying call for rugby’s heritage and future amid competitive pressures from other sports, particularly rugby league, affirming the game’s centrality to Pacific identity and community spirit.