Fiji FA Invests $800,000 in MA’s Support,
The Fiji Football Association has invested close to $800,000 in direct support for its member associations, covering a wide range of development and competition-related grants. Speaking at the Fiji FA Council meeting last Sunday, President Rajesh Patel said the association had already circulated details of its expenditure, which includes league grants, tournament grants, youth and futsal funding, coaches’ allowances, prize money, travel grants, and support for both men’s and women’s football. Patel said the funding benefits 20 clubs and two associate members, highlighting Fiji FA’s continued commitment to grassroots and elite football development across the country. He stressed that all member associations must give equal priority to women’s football and futsal, supported by dedicated officials at the district level. Patel confirmed that women’s football administrators Mere Vuda and Nazia Ali Krishna will be visiting districts to assist with oversight and development. He explained that while district women’s associations fall under their respective main associations — in line with FIFA, OFC and FGFA statutes — there will be dedicated women’s officials operating under the main association structure. He added that women’s football will operate through a separate account, ensuring accountability, with financial reports submitted to the main association before being forwarded to the FGFA. Patel also cautioned that 2026 will be a challenging year, with the Association’s financial resources expected to be under pressure and urged members to manage funds responsibly while continuing to prioritise development initiatives.
Fiji Amateur Football Survey Results Released, FIFA Seminar Scheduled
The results of the Fiji Amateur Football Survey have been released, with a FIFA-funded seminar scheduled to be held next month to present the findings and engage stakeholders in the development of the game. Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel confirmed that a two-day seminar will be conducted for technical staff to discuss the survey’s key findings, followed by a one-day session for other football stakeholders. Patel said Fiji FA Technical Director David Baltase will lead the technical sessions, during which he will present the technical framework and place strong emphasis on the survey outcomes. Attendance will be mandatory, as the programme is fully funded by FIFA, which is also responsible for conducting the survey. “All districts are required to send two officials to participate,” Patel said. The stakeholders’ seminar will be held on Wednesday, 11 February, at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort. Transport arrangements have been organised, with a bus departing from Ba to collect delegates, while another bus will transport officials from Rewa to Sigatoka. Patel said FIFA will directly engage all stakeholders during the session to further assess and strengthen amateur football development in the country. In addition, Patel announced that a FIFA Financial Workshop will be held at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort on March 12 and 13. The workshop will be attended by general secretaries and finance managers from all district associations, including parent bodies. The Fiji FA President reiterated that these programmes are vital for improving governance, technical standards, and financial management across all levels of football in Fiji.
Bula Boys Target June Friendlies, Fiji to Host PM’s MSG Cup
The Fiji national men’s football team will play an international friendly against Bangladesh in Fiji during the June FIFA international window. Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel said discussions were also underway to organise a Tri-Nations tournament, with Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) showing interest, while Hong Kong has also requested to play Fiji. Patel said Fiji FA is working to finalise the participating teams to ensure the national side gains maximum exposure during the June window. “We are trying to rope in another country for a possible tri-nations tournament,” Patel said. Looking ahead, Patel confirmed that Fiji will host the Prime Minister’s Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Cup in late September, which will be played during a FIFA international window. He said the tournament could see the Bula Boys playing two international matches, with further details to be confirmed closer to the event. Patel said hosting international fixtures at home was important for player development and for raising the standard of football in the country. The Fiji national men’s football team will play an international friendly against Bangladesh in Fiji during the June FIFA international window.
BIC Fiji FACT Group Stage Confirmed at Subrail Park
The BIC Fiji FACT tournament will be played at Subrail Park in Labasa, with the pool matches officially confirmed for June 19, 20, and 21. However, uncertainty remains over the semi-final and final matches. While these matches were initially scheduled for Subrail Park, the Labasa Town Council has indicated a preference to allow a private wedding booking at the venue during that period. As a result, HFC Bank Stadium has also been booked as an alternative venue. Speaking during the Fiji FA Council meeting on Sunday, Fiji FA Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Yusuf said Fiji FA would be formally raising the matter with the government. “We will be writing to the Minister in concern because the Town Council needs to look at the town’s economy in a wider picture. Hosting a major tournament like the BIC Fiji FACT brings far greater benefits to Labasa than allowing a single private booking,” Yusuf said. He added that if the issue is not resolved, the Fiji FACT semi-finals and final will be played at HFC Bank Stadium on Saturday, June 26, and Sunday, June 27.
Fiji FA Warns Against Use of Social Media to Resolve Football Disputes
The Fiji Football Association has reiterated that all affiliated members, districts, and regional clubs must strictly follow the established governance and disciplinary processes outlined in its statutes and constitution, warning that the use of social media to address football-related disputes will attract disciplinary action. Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel issued the warning during his address at the Fiji FA Council Meeting held yesterday at the association’s headquarters in Vatuwaqa, Suva. President Patel cautioned officials and members to exercise responsibility when engaging on social media platforms, stressing that football matters must be handled through proper internal channels. “Be careful how you operate on social media platforms. Anyone found contributing to football-related disputes on social media will be subject to disciplinary action. All we ask is that members follow the processes outlined in our statutes,” Patel said. He added that the Fiji FA Council Meeting allowed for open and transparent dialogue with district officials, where questions and concerns were addressed directly. “We were open and answered questions raised by district officials, even in situations involving misinformation. We did not shy away from the discussion. What we want everyone to understand is that social media should not be treated as the ultimate source of truth,” he said. Patel also highlighted the association’s firm stance on protecting the integrity of football, noting that Fiji FA currently has an ongoing defamation-related case involving a former minister. “When anyone is defamed, the organisation has a responsibility to protect its integrity and ensure that football remains clean,” he added. Fiji FA Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Yusuf reinforced the President’s remarks, urging districts and officials to respect the governance framework set out in the organisation’s constitution. “If there are any issues, districts should not turn to social media to resolve them. They must follow the proper processes provided within the constitution,” Yusuf said. He emphasized that disciplinary action would be taken against officials who attempt to resolve disputes publicly online. “We will be coming down hard on this. Any official who raises complaints or attempts to resolve disputes through social media will be taken to task,” he said. Yusuf further stated that Fiji FA statutes provide sufficient mechanisms for addressing grievances and disputes. “There are ample provisions within our statutes for disputes to be resolved fairly and professionally. Members need to use these processes,” he added.
Ba FC Unveils Strong Ba FA Board for 2026
Ba FC President Praneel Dayal has put together a strong and diverse Ba Football Association Board for the 2026 season, assembling a leadership team focused on unity, development, and sustained success across all levels of the game. With a renewed sense of purpose and direction, the newly announced Executive and Management Team brings together experienced administrators, emerging leaders, and passionate football advocates who are committed to advancing football in Ba — from grassroots and women’s football to futsal and elite competitions. Speaking on the announcement, President Dayal expressed confidence in the board’s ability to lead the association forward. “This board represents unity, balance, and a shared vision for football in Ba. Each individual has been selected based on their commitment, experience, and passion for the game. Together, we are focused on strengthening our systems, supporting our players and clubs, and building a future that every Ba football supporter can be proud of,” Dayal said. The 2026 Executive is led by President Praneel Dayal, supported by four Vice Presidents — Joshua Wilson, Zahida Ali, Adriu Naisiroki, and Dr. Ashutosh Sen Andrew — ensuring broad representation and strong governance across the association. Administrative roles are anchored by Secretary Lilian Shabrina Vurewa, Assistant Secretary Ronita Mishra, and Treasurer Ajitesh Kumar, while the board is further strengthened by experienced members Ronald Krishna, Zulfikar Ali, Shaneel Sudhakar, and Ronish Singh. Key football portfolios have also been clearly defined, with Vincent Ali overseeing the Local League, Charlene Lockington leading Women’s Football, and Deepesh Prasad heading Futsal development. Media and operations will be managed by Vijay Chand and Azam Ali, respectively, with Vikrant Chandra appointed as Board Advisor. As Ba FA looks ahead to the 2026 season, the newly formed board signals stability, ambition, and a collective commitment to excellence — setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting year for Ba football.
Labasa, Ba Set Up Title Decider as Fiji FA Women’s IDC Nears Conclusion
The Fiji FA Women’s Inter-District Championship (IDC) 2025 heads into its final day with the title firmly within reach following another dominant round of matches at the Fiji FA Academy Ground in Vatuwaqa. Defending champions Ba Women FC continued their ruthless form on Day Two, dismantling Suva Women FC 12–0. Ba stormed to a 5–0 halftime lead, with Sisilia Kuladina netting a first-half hat-trick, while Sereana Naweni and Asela Cokanisiga also got on the scoresheet. Ba showed no mercy after the break, with Naweni adding a second-half treble, goals from Koleta Likuculacula, Elesi Tabunase, Joyce Naceva, and an own goal completing the emphatic victory. Labasa Women FC produced another commanding display, overpowering Rewa Women FC 8–0. Labasa led 5–0 at halftime, highlighted by a first-half hat-trick from Sofi Diyolowai, with Annie May and Adi Covunisiga also finding the net. Diyolowai went on to add three more goals in the second half, sealing a dominant win for the northern side. With results across the first two days, Labasa Women FC now sit in a strong position heading into the final round. Labasa will face Ba Women FC at 1:00pm tomorrow, while Rewa Women FC take on Suva Women FC at 11:00am. The Women in Black require just a draw in their final match to secure the Fiji FA Women’s IDC 2025 title, holding a superior goal difference, while Labasa will be pushing for victory to keep their title defence alive. All matches will be played at the Fiji FA Academy Ground in Vatuwaqa, with the championship set for an exciting conclusion.
Demaine appointed Fiji Kulas head coach
The Fiji Football Association has appointed Nicola Demaine as the new Head Coach of the Fiji women’s national football team, the Fiji Kulas. Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel said the appointment was part of the association’s strategic focus on strengthening the women’s football programme and ensuring long-term development. “The Fiji Football Association is pleased to appoint Nicola Demaine as the Head Coach of the Fiji women’s national team,” Patel said.“Nicola brings significant international experience in women’s football, particularly within the Oceania region, and has demonstrated strong capability in team development and high-performance environments.” Patel said Demaine’s background and understanding of women’s football made her a valuable addition to the national programme. “Her experience working with national teams and football development programmes aligns with our vision for the continued growth of women’s football in Fiji, and we are confident she will contribute positively to the progress of the Fiji Kulas,” he said. Demaine is an English-born coach with extensive experience coaching women’s national teams across the Pacific and Asia. She previously guided Papua New Guinea to the 2022 OFC Women’s Nations Cup title, the nation’s first major international success in women’s football. She has also served as head coach of the Samoa women’s national team and worked as an OFC Women’s Football Development Officer, supporting the development of women’s football across the region. Most recently, she was head coach of the Bhutan women’s national team. Demaine said she was honoured to be appointed and looked forward to working with Fiji Football. “I would like to thank the Fiji Football Association for the opportunity to lead the Fiji women’s national team,” Demaine said.“I am looking forward to working closely with the players, coaching staff and administrators to continue developing the women’s programme and building a strong and competitive team.” She said her focus would be on creating a positive environment and supporting player development. “There is clear potential within women’s football in Fiji, and I am committed to working collaboratively to support the ongoing growth of the game,” she said. Demaine takes over the role as the Fiji Kulas prepare for upcoming Oceania competitions and future World Cup qualifying campaigns.
Fiji FA Women’s IDC 2025 Kicks Off Today in Vatuwaqa
The Fiji FA Women’s Inter-District Championship (IDC) 2025 kicks off today at the Fiji FA Academy Ground in Vatuwaqa, with three days of exciting women’s football lined up as Ba, Rewa, Suva, and Labasa battle for early-season supremacy. Defending champions Ba Women FC will open the tournament against Rewa Women FC at 12 noon, setting the stage for what promises to be a competitive championship. The second match of the day will see Suva Women’s FC take on Labasa Women’s FC at 2:00 p.m. Suva Women head into the tournament with a developing squad, while Rewa Women are focused on fitness and youth development following the off-season break. Labasa Women, under Head Coach Roneel Ram, are also aiming to use the tournament as a platform to build cohesion and expose young players to top-level competition. Meanwhile, Ba Women will be eager to defend their title and establish their authority early. The IDC will continue in a round-robin format across the weekend, with all matches played at the Fiji FA Academy Ground. Fiji FA Women’s IDC 2025 – Match Fixtures 📍 Venue: Fiji FA Academy Ground, Vatuwaqa Round 1 – Friday, January 23 Round 2 – Saturday, January 24 Round 3 – Sunday, January 25
Auvray Confident as Bula FC Prepare for Auckland FC Clash
Bula FC head coach Stéphanie Stéphane Auvray says his side is feeling confident and well-prepared ahead of their OFC Pro League fixture against Auckland FC tomorrow at 6pm, following an encouraging training session. Speaking after the team’s final preparations, Auvray said the squad has been working hard on key tactical details despite not being completely satisfied during training. “Training sessions are going well, I’m feeling good, thank God,” Auvray said. “We trained this morning and had a few details we needed to work on to prepare for tomorrow’s game. We were never fully satisfied, but I think it was figured out for most of the players.” The match will be Bula FC’s third scheduled game of the campaign, although one fixture was previously cancelled, adding importance to the upcoming encounter. “That makes me even more confident going into this game,” he added. Auvray also confirmed that the players are mentally ready to step onto the field against Auckland FC, emphasising the team’s focus on internal development rather than external pressure. “Yes, the boys are confident,” she said. “We’ve been focusing a lot on ourselves, making sure that we are prepared and that we develop our understanding of the game and how we play.” According to the coach, the squad’s growing grasp of tactical details is helping the team move closer to a shared vision on the pitch. “More and more players are starting to understand even the small details. The more we go on, the more the team is going to be on the same page,” Auvray explained. Looking ahead to match day, Auvray expressed hope for good weather and strong fan support as Bula FC aims for a positive result. “I hope the weather is good and the fans can enjoy the game,” he said. “Once more, we’re going to do our best and try to get the best result possible.” Bula FC will face Auckland FC tomorrow at 6 pm in what promises to be a crucial OFC Pro League encounter. Round 1 Results Bula FC 1-1 Vanuatu United Bula FC vs South United FC (Postponed)