The Western Force: How a Rugby Franchise Survived Being Axed from the Big Leagues

Cultures · Published 10 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Born from a wave of public fervor in Western Australia, the Western Force rugby team has navigated a turbulent history. From being cut from Super Rugby in 2017 to reinventing itself through private investment and domestic competitions, the franchise remains a resilient symbol of its state’s sporting identity and community spirit.

The Western Force was established in 2005 to represent Western Australia, a state defined by its vast geography and concentrated population in Perth. The bid for the franchise was fueled by intense local support, including a petition signed by over 25,500 residents and a rally at Subiaco Oval attended by 5,000 people. This 'people power' was instrumental in securing the team's spot in the Super 14 competition, where they debuted in 2006. Despite finishing last in their inaugural season, the Force maintained the highest average crowd attendance among Australian teams, demonstrating the deep-seated loyalty of their fanbase.

The team's journey has been marked by significant upheaval. In 2017, SANZAAR decided to reduce the Super Rugby competition, leading to the Force being axed. Rather than dissolving, the franchise pivoted. Billionaire Andrew Forrest organized the Global Rapid Rugby tournament, providing a platform for the team to continue playing against international sides. Simultaneously, the Force competed in the National Rugby Championship, winning the 2019 title. These years of adaptation proved vital when the COVID-19 pandemic forced a restructuring of Australian rugby, eventually leading to the Force's permanent return to Super Rugby Pacific in 2022.

Today, the Western Force continues to evolve, balancing the challenges of consistency with moments of high-level performance. In 2025, the team led the world in the ratio of lineout steals and tries scored from the maul. Their home ground, Perth Stadium, also hosted a record crowd of 46,656 during a 2025 match against the British & Irish Lions. While the team has faced financial penalties and the loss of its original home at Subiaco Oval, the Force remains a fixture in the Australian landscape, now competing in both the Super Rugby Pacific and the newly established Super Rugby AUS.

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