FRU records profit during AGM meeting

$929,535 in profit has set the tone for a strong financial year for Fiji Rugby Union, as CEO Koli Sewabu addressed stakeholders following the Annual General Meeting.

Speaking after the AGM at Novotel Suva Lami Bay, Sewabu says the union’s combined 2025 profit, with $231,920 coming from Fiji Rakavi Football Union Limited and $697,615 from Fiji Rugby Football Union Trust Board—a result that reflects stable financial management and growing confidence in the sport’s administration.

He says looking ahead, attention shifts to the international stage and the Fiji national rugby union team is preparing to name a 60-player extended squad for July Tests against Wales, England, and Scotland as part of the Nations Championship.

Sewabu says domestically, structural changes are coming to the Skipper Cup in 2026 and the top 10 teams from the 2025 season will qualify automatically, while the final two spots will be decided through playoffs involving teams from the Vodafone Vanua Cup, ensuring a competitive pathway for emerging teams from both Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.

He says a notable development is the approval of the Fijian Latui, which will create an additional pathway to the national side.

He added this program will complement the Fijian Drua and Fijian Warriors, drawing talent from both domestic competitions and overseas-based players, with exhibition matches planned in France and England.

Sewabu say beyond the field, Fiji Rugby is investing in player welfare through a partnership with Australia Pacific Management Institute to launch the Life After Rugby and Sports (LARS) program.

He says this initiative focuses on education, technical skills, and career pathways, helping players transition into roles such as mentors, tutors, and ambassadors.

He further says while strengthening development, the union is expanding its high-performance footprint with plans to establish a new unit in Labasa in collaboration with the Labasa Town Council.

Sewabu says the facility, expected to open soon, will boost talent development—particularly in the northern region.