New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has confirmed Moana Pasifika has been granted an unconditional licence to join a planned new professional rugby competition next year.
In April, Pasifika along with Fijian Drua were handed conditionally approved licences as they push to join an expanded 12-team Super Rugby in 2022.
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“Moana Pasifika can now formalise some key agreements with coaches, players and partners as they work toward taking the field alongside our Super Rugby clubs in next year’s professional competition," NZR CEO Mark Robinson said in a statement.
“A lot of hard work has gone on behind the scenes and it will be exciting for everyone to watch developments in the coming weeks and months.”
"We always anticipated it would take some time to formalise the arrangements and conditions we needed to progress, but we are now in a position to move forward again. Today’s announcement will no doubt generate another wave of excitement and enthusiasm about Moana Pasifika," Moana Pasifika Interim CEO Pelenato Sakalia added.
Robinson also confirmed the Drua was making positive steps towards their inclusion being confirmed, with COVID-19 related issues slowing the process according to Fiji Rugby Union CEO John O'Connor
“We are encouraged by the progress we are making toward gaining an unconditional licence to compete in next year’s competition," John O'Connor said on the situation.
"COVID-19 has presented some obvious challenges, but we are confident we will be in a position to join Moana Pasifika in entering the final phase of planning for 2022 and beyond.”
Rugby Australia and NZR will continue to work together toward finalising the structure for next year’s Super Rugby tournament, with CEO Andy Marinos welcoming the news of Pasifika's official confirmation
“It’s really pleasing that the Moana Pasifika licence has been granted as we look forward to the 2022 season," he said.
"We await positive news regarding the Fijian Drua’s licence in the near future as we continue to progress discussions regarding the competition structure for next year.”
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