Fiji Rugby Union Reports Financial Drop, Local Teams Shine

The Fiji Rugby Union announced a net income of FJ$105,962 (approximately US$47,000) for the financial year ending December 31, 2024. This figure marks a significant decline from the previous year’s net income of over US$470,000, largely attributed to expenses incurred during the Rugby World Cup. The financial details were disclosed during the union’s 2025 Annual General Meeting held in Suva.

Total gross income for the Fiji Rugby Union reached around US$13 million, driven primarily by corporate sponsorships and grants from the government and World Rugby. The AGM also saw the approval of Lailanie Burnes as the new director of rugby, indicating a continued commitment to enhancing the sport in Fiji.

In other sports news, Ileen Pegi, the captain of the Solomon Islands women’s football team, has joined the Labasa women’s team for the ongoing Fiji Football competition. The 33-year-old striker led her national team to victory at the Oceania Women’s Nations Cup earlier this month. Pegi made an immediate impact by scoring a goal in Labasa’s 3-0 victory against Rewa on Sunday. She is expected to rejoin her national team for the Melanesian Cup tournament scheduled for November.

Pacific Islands Swimmers Compete in Singapore

Meanwhile, several Pacific Islands swimmers are participating in the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Countries represented include Fiji, Tonga, Palau, Papua New Guinea, and Samoa. The competition commenced on Sunday and will continue through the weekend, showcasing the talents of athletes from the region.

In rugby news, the Cook Islands Rugby Union is actively scouting overseas-based players for their training squad in preparation for the upcoming Oceania Tournament. According to Cook Islands News, national coach Clive Nicholas and the team management are exploring ways to include these players in their plans. Local players based in Rarotonga have already begun preparations, having held their first training session last Wednesday at the National Stadium in Nikao.

These developments highlight the vibrant sports scene in the Pacific Islands, with local teams and athletes making strides in their respective disciplines. As the sporting calendar progresses, both rugby and football in the region continue to gain momentum, promising an exciting season ahead.