Miracle Faiilagi will captain Moana Pasifika in the 2026 DHL Super Rugby Pacific season. He became the first player to sign a Super Rugby contract directly from a Samoan club rugby.

Faiilagi first caught the attention of Moana Pasifika coaches at the 2022 World Rugby Pacific Combine in Suva and made his Super Rugby debut in 2023. Since then, he has grown into a key player for Moana Pasifika and Manu Samoa.

“I’m truly grateful for this opportunity, and I just give praise to God,” Faiilagi said. “It’s an honour and a privilege to lead this team. I’m not only leading the boys and this organisation, but I’m leading the Pasifika people.”

The 25-year-old hails from Vailele and Uafato in Samoa. He began his career with Vailele Rugby Club, winning two Super 9 Under-20 championships with the Taula Eels and earning the Super 9 Under-20 Player of the Tournament in 2019. He also represented Samoa in Sevens in 2021.

Faiilagi scored five tries in his debut Super Rugby season, including two against the Reds at Apia Park. He represented Manu Samoa at the 2023 Rugby World Cup before missing most of 2024 with injury. He returned in 2025 to score eight tries in 13 games, including a hat-trick against the Hurricanes, and was named Moana Pasifika Attacking Player of the Year.

Head Coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga praised Faiilagi’s leadership and resilience. “His journey from playing in the village in Samoa to now leading a Super Rugby team is inspiring for Pasifika people,” Umaga said. “Many young Pasifika kids will be able to see themselves in Miracle and know that they can one day be where he is.”

Faiilagi said he hopes his story inspires young players back in Samoa. “Keep believing in yourselves, put God first, and do the hard work,” he said.