Samoa pull out of November Test as ‘exciting and fast-emerging force’ drafted in to face Six Nations opponent
Samoa have pulled out of their November Test against Italy, with Chile taking their place
World Rugby have confirmed Chile will now play Italy rather than Samoa during the upcoming November Tests, following the South American nation’s qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Los Cóndores beat the Pacific Island nation in last month’s South America/Pacific play-off to book their spot in the flagship tournament in Australia in two years’ time, forcing Samoa into next month’s Final Qualification Tournament in Dubai.
They still have a chance to qualify for the tournament and continue their record of featuring in every World Cup since 1991, but will have to beat out Belgium, Namibia and the winner of the Brazil-Paraguay two-leg play-off to do so.
The round-robin event in the Middle East creates a major fixture clash with their proposed Test against the Azzurri, which takes place on Saturday, November 22, and therefore forces Samoa to pull out of the proposed game.
‘Chile are an exciting addition to the November window’
This will also be the first time Chile have ever played Italy when they take to the field in Genoa next month, further highlighting their emergence on the Test stage.
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Commenting on the news, World Rugby Chief Executive, Alan Gilpin, said: “We are deeply appreciative of the collaboration and understanding shown by all unions involved, the FIR and Six Nations Rugby for accommodating the schedule adjustment. Chile, fresh from qualifying for Rugby World Cup 2027, are an exciting and fast-emerging force in world rugby and will embrace the opportunity to face Italy in this historic test.
“While we appreciate that it’s disappointing for Samoa fans not to see their team in action in Europe in November, at the same time we fully recognise that they must focus their efforts and resources on the Rugby World Cup 2027 final qualification tournament.”
Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer of Six Nations Rugby, added: “Thanks to Italy for accommodating the change to their fixture. Chile are an exciting addition to the November window, bringing their culture and identity into the Series, whilst offering them a huge opportunity to develop as they build towards the Rugby World Cup in Australia.”
FIR President Andrea Duodo said: “We welcome this change in the calendar as a great opportunity to bring a brand-new challenge to the international stage, in a city with a deep passion for sport. Genoa has hosted some historic test matches since the 1930s and is home to a proud South American community, who we are sure will join our fans in creating an unparalleled atmosphere at Stadio Luigi Ferraris – the perfect setting for a fantastic rugby match.”