Dual Olympic gold medallist Jerry Tuwai will captain the Mike Friday Select 7s side at the 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s in January.
Following a thrilling campaign this year that saw the side finish as runners-up, Tuwai’s return signals a renewed drive to go one better in 2026.
His leadership, trademark agility, and world-class experience are expected to be central to the Mike Friday Select team’s quest for the coveted i-Wau Trophy.
Founding Chairman Jay Whyte says Tuwai’s participation continues to elevate the prestige and competitive fire of the event.
He says Tuwai is a once-in-a-generation player whose presence lifts everyone around him, and to have him not only return but again lead the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s team reinforces why the Coral Coast 7s remains the world’s premier invitational sevens tournament.
Head Coach Mike Friday says Tuwai is the heartbeat of the team and his leadership on and off the field creates belief, clarity and composure in big moments.
He says after finishing so close this year, the group is hungry, and Tuwai’s return is exactly the spark they wanted heading into 2026.
Tuwai, who remains one of Fiji’s most admired sporting figures, expressed excitement at returning to Lawaqa Park.
He says it is always special to play at home in front of our people.
He says last year’s finish still drives them and they are coming back with purpose.
Tuwai says he is honoured to lead this talented group again in 2026.
The McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s will be held from the 15th to the 17th of January at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
