Samoa

Samoa's sports minister hits back at claims by Lakapi Samoa chairman that the government failed to fund the national men's 15s team's Europe tour in November.

Fiamē Naomi Mata'afa says "the safety and security of all world leaders attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting is critical".

A World Rugby spokesperson said the financial troubles faced by Lakapi Samoa "are a direct consequence of decisions taken by the union". Audio

In a letter, dated 11 July 2024, Lakapi Samoa chair wrote to World Rugby chair, saying the union wants to "avoid embarrassment of being the first small union to go bankrupt".

Samoa's Alex Rose, 32, has qualified for the final of the men's discus at the Paris Olympics, with a throw of 62.88 metres.

A Sāmoan academic says many younger people may not be fully aware of the background of the flags they raise during events and in support of their national sports teams, like the Toa Sāmoa. Audio

While Sāmoan language experts agree there have been discussions for a more consistent written and reading text, there are mixed views on the use of using macrons and glottal stops. Audio