Defending champions Devo Babas did not feature in the 4th Fiji Bitter Labasa 7s after failing to pay their registration fees by the deadline.
Organisers say the team was initially accepted and given time until last Monday, the final day of registration to pay their fees, but the deadline was missed.
They stress that being defending champions does not guarantee automatic entry, and all teams, including grassroots clubs, must secure their spots on a first-come, first-served basis.
Officials clarified that the issue is a team management matter and is not related to major sponsor Fiji Bitter or the sanctioning body, Fiji Rugby Union.
This is the second time Devo Babas have failed to pay fees, having also missed the Fiji Bitter Wairiki 7s in December 2025.
Organisers are urging the team’s fans and management to focus on providing financial support rather than posting complaints on social media.
We have sent questions to Devo Babas.
For more information, contact Tournament Coordinator Vika Vataniyaragi on 9464236 or Media & Marketing Officer James Vunituraga on 9790427.
