World Rugby Chairman Bestowed the Manūmailagi Chiefly Title

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 29 October 2026 – The World Rugby Chairman Dr. Brett Robinson was officially welcomed to Samoa with an ‘Ava Ceremony at the Samoa Tourism Authority Fale this afternoon where he was also bestowed the chiefly title Manūmailagi.

Rev. Dr Latu Latai blessed the ceremony and the title bestowment and clarified the meaning behind the title, saying Manū represents blessings, hope, joy and unity while Lagi means heaven. He also stated that the chiefly title is fitting as rugby has the ability to unite people, have people in unison and infuses hope and joy.

The Chairman is visiting Samoa on the Prime Minister’s invitation in the efforts to sort out the ensuing division in Samoan rugby with questions asked of the Rugby Unions governance and the declining performance of its teams over the years.

“It is a great privilege to come to your country today as you are one of the greatest rugby playing nations,” said Manūmailagi Dr. Brett Robinson in accepting his ava cup.

He expressed his gratitude for the welcoming ceremony and the honour accorded himself and World Rugby. He also reflected on his previous connection with Samoa through rugby.

As a former Wallaby with 16 Test caps and the inaugural captain of the ACT Brumbies, Robinson came to Samoa as a twenty-year-old to play in the Marist 7s where he formed lasting people connections through rugby.

World Rugby’s Chair drinks his Ava.

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation Chief Executive Officer Luatua Semiperive Epati emphasised the cultural significance of the matai title, describing it as a symbol of honour, respect, trust and a commitment to serving families, villages and wider communities.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity for Samoan representatives to reaffirm the country’s deep connection to rugby and its commitment to supporting the sport internationally.

Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt expressed the Government’s appreciation for Manūmailagi visit noting that the country had awaited his presence.

“Samoa values rugby so much, we honour rugby, we love rugby, and we have integrity for this game. We remember the people who came before us, who developed the sport to where it is now,” said Laauli.

He also said that Samoa’s strength in rugby comes from its passion and dedication rather than financial wealth.

World Rugby chair with the Prime Minister, Miss Samoa and Cabinet Ministers and the tattooed men who took part in the bestowal Ava Ceremony.

“Let me assure you, Mr Chairman, Samoa will support World Rugby much more than before. We will always support the vision of our great-grandparents, parents and pioneers who started the game,” said Laauli.

He also referred to discussions with World Rugby and the MOU he already signed to reset Samoan rugby through the work to be led by the Samoa Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) that the Government will lend its support.

“Manu Samoa will participate in the 2027 Rugby World Cup, and they will not only participate but bring home the World Cup,” La’auli said.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the registration certificate for Manūmailagi’s honorary matai title by the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Auapaʻau Mulipola Aloitafua.

The registration certificate for Manūmailagi’s honorary matai title is presented by the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Auapaʻau Mulipola Aloitafua.

Manūmailagi Dr Brett Robison is accompanied by David Carrigy, World Rugby’s Chief of International Federation and David Gibson, World Rugby’s Regional Partnership Manager for Oceania.

The Chair and his delegation later met with the Prime Minister and Cabinet in the view to progress the work to resolve the governance issues that have divided Samoan rugby for months and lay to a pathway forward for Samoan rugby.