Oceania Rugby president Richard Sapias says the region is set to benefit from new international partnerships, including a potential French-backed competition to be hosted in Fiji, following a productive Annual General Meeting held yesterday at Novotel in Nadi.
In an exclusive interview following the meeting, Sapias highlighted the ongoing progress across the region, but also acknowledged key challenges particularly around funding for competitions among developing unions.
“We continue to see some strong programmes. Our training and education pathways remain robust, and the sport is growing across the region, which is really encouraging,” he said.
“But we’re also facing familiar issues especially for our developing unions like the lack of funding for competitions.”
One of the major highlights of the AGM was the presence of French Rugby Federation vice president Abdel Benazzi, a former French international No. 8, who shared insights on potential collaboration with the Pacific.
“It was groundbreaking to have the French Rugby vice president present. We’re excited by the possibility of launching a new competition that the French are keen to support, potentially hosted in Fiji,” Sapias confirmed.
The discussions are still in their early stages, but Sapias revealed that an official announcement may be made within the next month. He added that this marks the first time Oceania Rugby has entered into a formal relationship with the French Rugby Union, with indirect support expected from the French Government.
“That’s significant for us. It opens new doors—not just for competition, but for broader development across the region.”
He also noted that Rugby Australia, is exploring ways to assist in establishing additional competitions within Oceania.
Election Results
Two key positions on the Oceania Rugby Executive Board were also decided during the AGM.
Aisea Aholelei of Tonga was re-elected to the General Member seat reserved for Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. Candidates from Fiji and Samoa were unsuccessful in their bids.
Meanwhile, Sidney Lui of Niue retained his seat as General Member representing the wider Oceania membership.
Each term on the board spans four years.
