Moana Pasifika v Highlanders at Teufaiva Stadium, Nuku'alofa, Tonga. 4 May 2024 Photo: Moana Pasifika
A lack of funding has forced Moana Pasifika to cancel hosting their Super Rugby Pacific match against the Chiefs in Nuku'alofa.
In a statement on Monday, Debbie Sorensen, the club chief executive, said despite their "best efforts to make the game happen" at Teufaiva Stadium, they could not proceed with it due to "lack of funding and sponsorship".
She said the club explored every avenue possible to try and make it work, but they were unable to securee sponsorship to take the game to Tonga.
"The challenge we face is that we are not funded to bring any games to the Pacific region, and we believe we should be," she said.
"While we are heartbroken for our team, our fans, and especially our families in Tonga, we remain hopeful and deeply committed to growing the game in the region."
Tonga Rugby Union CEO Aisea Aholelei said it was unfortunate Moana Pasifika could not make it to Tonga this year.
"Moana is in very similar circumstances to Tonga Rugby Union. Whenever we want to play a game here in Tonga, it's always a loss-making exercise unless a significant sponsor comes our way."
The franchise said it was working proactively with Super Rugby Pacific, New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs to find an alternative venue for the round nine fixture.
