Former Fiji Football Association Chief Executive Officer Bob Sant Kumar has passed away peacefully at his home in Suva today at the age of 80.
Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel says today, Fiji Football has lost not only a great administrator but also a father figure who dedicated his life to the sport.
He says Kumar’s contribution is immeasurable, and his passion and humility will forever inspire them.
Patel says on behalf of the Board, the districts, officials, players, and fans, they express their deepest condolences to the Kumar family.
He adds they will remember him with gratitude, respect, and love.
Fiji FA says Kumar dedicated his entire life to football.
He began as a player, representing Nadi and later Suva, before moving into administration in 1987.
The Association says rising from volunteer to secretary, and eventually Chief Executive Officer in 2003, he served the game for more than 45 years.
Fiji FA says his tenure as CEO lasted until 2017, making him one of Fiji’s longest-serving and most respected sports administrators.
They say during his time at the helm, Kumar oversaw some of the proudest moments in Fijian football, where he guided the national under-20 team to its historic qualification for the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand, and later saw the national team achieve an unforgettable Olympic debut at Rio 2016.
Fiji FA says he also championed grassroots development, establishing football academies in Suva, Ba, and Labasa, while overseeing the construction of the Fiji FA headquarters in Vatuwaqa with support from FIFA.
They say these achievements cemented his reputation as a visionary who laid a strong foundation for the future of the sport.
Fiji FA says Kumar’s legacy of dedication and service will live on through the many players, officials, and fans whose lives he touched and the football family of Fiji stands united in honoring his memory.
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