'Devastating news': Moana Pasifika to disband at end of season

Moana Pasifika will disband at the end of the season, a decision described by players and supporters as devastating news for Pacific rugby.

The franchise was created to give Pacific players a professional pathway close to home and quickly built a following well beyond its win-loss record.

Financial pressure has shadowed the team since its formation, with questions over long-term funding never fully resolved.

Players face an uncertain off-season as they weigh contracts elsewhere, while administrators consider what a Pacific presence in professional rugby looks like from here.