Samoa Receives Support at Women’s Rugby World Cup Despite Financial Challenges

TDT | Manama

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Samoa’s women’s rugby team is receiving what World Rugby calls “appropriate” support at the Women’s World Cup, after reports emerged that players had to raise money to cover domestic bills while participating in the tournament.

The Samoan squad is made up of amateur athletes, including a police officer, a primary school teacher, and a property manager. In contrast, hosts and favourites England are a fully professional team, with player salaries ranging from £39,000 ($52,000) to £48,000. England recently defeated Samoa 92-3 in a World Cup pool match.

World Rugby says it is providing support to emerging nations like Samoa by giving access to specialist coaches and bringing in former Test referee Alain Rolland to help reduce penalty counts. The tournament also covers the costs of flights and accommodation for all teams.

“Everything that teams need when they arrive here, including flights and accommodation, is covered by the tournament,” said Sarah Massey, Women’s World Cup managing director, at a press conference at Twickenham on Tuesday. “Everything once they’re in-country is covered.”

Financial challenges in Samoan rugby have been longstanding. Last year, the men’s team had to cancel a planned European tour due to fears that the trip could bankrupt the national governing body.