Sports ‘Testament to their contribution’: Pacific Islands elevated by IRL Today Statement November 9, 2026 1 minute read Samoa and Tonga have been elevated to Tier 1 nations as the 2030 World Cup is set to be hosted on their home soil. About the Author Today Statement Administrator Visit Website View All Posts Post navigation Previous: Marnus Labuschagne: Chairman of selectors George Bailey confirms batter axed for first Test against New ZealandNext: Brisbane Lions coaching search: Cameron Bruce appointed as new senior coach to replace Chris Fagan Related Stories Sports Jack Bostock and Harry Grant contract updates: Kangaroos stars address NRL futures amid World Cup campaign Today Statement November 10, 2026 Sports Izzy Neale: Apprentice jockey dies at 22 following fall at Warren race meeting Today Statement November 10, 2026 Sports Junior sport doping: Sport Integrity Australia warns of rising substance use among children fuelled by social media Today Statement November 10, 2026