Lakapi Samoa Chairman appointed to the World Rugby Council

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 22 June 2026 – Lakapi Samoa’s Chairman, Namulauulu Papalii Leota Sami Leota, has been appointed by World Rugby to serve on the sport’s top decision-making council.

The appointment was announced in a statement from Lakapi Samoa saying the World Rugby Council shapes the direction of rugby worldwide, overseeing governance, competitions, player welfare, and development initiatives.

Namulauulu’s appointment comes at a time when Samoan rugby is at a crossroads as a strong call from the public, former players and coaches and a number of sub unions, to change the management of Lakapi Samoa as Samoan rugby’s international standing continue to slide with its men’s team, Manu Samoa now ranked 20th in the world.

“I am honored to represent Lakapi Samoa and our people, working to support players, fans, and the Pacific rugby community,” he added.

He also acknowledged the efforts of past players, coaches, and officials who built Samoa’s rugby reputation, along with government support that remains vital for growth.

Namulauulu’s career spans law, business, and politics.

He started in Samoa’s justice system in 1992, then became General Manager of Federal Pacific Insurance in 1999, overseeing operations across Samoa and the Pacific.

He served as President of the Samoa Chamber of Commerce and is a director of the National Bank of Samoa.

His rugby journey began in 2000, managing national age-group teams. He later served as Samoa Rugby Union Secretary from 2016 and President from 2018.

He also represented Samoa at Oceania Rugby meetings and served as a director of Oceania Rugby.

Namulauulu expressed his gratitude, saying, “This role is an opportunity to grow rugby in Samoa and across the Pacific, and I will work hard to build a stronger future for our sport.”