Tom Brady, Shaquille O’Neal to assist World Cup draw – FBC News
[Source: Reuters] Sports legends from outside of soccer, including football’s Tom Brady, basketball’s Shaquille O’Neal, hockey’s Wayne Gretzky and current All-Star baseball player Aaron Judge, will assist with the World Cup draw on Friday in Washington, D.C. FIFA announced on Wednesday the lineup of current and former sports stars as well as entertainers in the event at the Kennedy Center. The show will reveal the group-stage matchups for the first-ever 48-team World Cup. The World Cup, expanded from 32 teams, is being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Matches will be played at 16 venues, including three in Mexico and two in Canada. Article continues after advertisement The draw will sort the teams into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group and the eight best third-place teams will advance to the knockout stage. With 42 teams already qualified, 22 others will be competing in playoffs for the final six berths in the coming months. English Premier League Hall of Fame member Rio Ferdinand, a former Manchester United captain with 81 England caps, will conduct the draw. The co-conductor is broadcaster Samantha Johnson. The four sports legends will serve as assistants, each assigned one pot and picking the names of teams assigned to a group, from Group A to L.“Soccer has a unique power to unite people from all over the world and create a positive impact, and I cannot wait to see this happening in North America next year and beyond, when we host the biggest-ever FIFA World Cup,” Gretzky, a four-time Stanley Cup champion and record-setting NHL player, said in a FIFA news release. “I’m thrilled to be part of the draw that will decide the fate of the participating teams — and stir emotions across the world. This will be an unforgettable moment for me personally.” Brady, who won seven Super Bowls before he retired, is a part owner of the English Championship club Birmingham City. “Being part of the final draw for the FIFA World Cup is an incredible honor — it’s the kind of global stage every athlete dreams of,” Brady said in the news release. “I’m excited to help set the path for a tournament that brings the world together like nothing else.” Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Rewa duo signs with Bula FC – FBC News
Josaia Sela and Delon Hari Shankar. Bula FC has secured two of Rewa’s brightest young talents ahead of the OFC Pro League, confirming the signings of 22-year-old Josaia Sela and 18-year-old Delon Hari Shankar. Sela, a hardworking centre forward, makes the move after steadily rising through the local football ranks. He began his journey at Saraswati Primary School before featuring for Baulevu High School, and by Form 4 had already broken into the Rewa district set-up. Coming from a football family, Sela says he grew up inspired by his older brother, former national rep Iosefo Verevou. Joining Bula FC now marks the moment he has long hoped for. He says turning professional is a dream he has carried since childhood and an opportunity to finally showcase his ability at the next level. Shankar, meanwhile, joins Bula FC as one of the youngest players in the league. The 18-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise over the past two seasons, moving through the Rewa youth system and representing Fiji at both U16 and U19 level. He has already featured in two OFC Champions League campaigns, earned Bula Boys call-ups, and played key roles in Rewa’s IDC and Pacific Cup triumphs this year. Shankar admits the move comes at an important time for him after overcoming a knee injury earlier in the season. He says signing with Bula FC will not only help him grow as a player but also bring stability for him and his family. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
FSC, Rooster Chicken boost grassroots with year-end partnership – FBC News
The Fiji Sports Council has strengthened its push for grassroots sports development through a renewed partnership with Rooster Chicken, announced yesterday in Suva. The agreement confirms Rooster Chicken as the official sponsor of the Grassroots Fiji 7s Rugby Tournament and the FSC End-of-Year Volleyball Festival, two of the country’s most prominent community-level competitions. The two-day events, set for 18–19 December at the HFC Bank Stadium and FMF Gymnasium, aim to empower young athletes, expand community engagement and provide locally driven platforms for emerging talent. Article continues after advertisement This year’s Grassroots Fiji 7s will feature 24 men’s teams, 12 under-20 teams and 8 women’s teams, while the Volleyball Festival will host 24 men’s teams and 16 women’s teams. Both competitions offer young players exposure to professional facilities and an environment that promotes discipline, teamwork and long-term athletic development. FSC chief executive Gilbert Vakalalabure said the partnership plays a critical role in advancing the Council’s mission for grassroots growth, noting that Rooster Chicken’s backing ensures the continuity of key development pathways. “We are incredibly grateful to Rooster Chicken for joining us as the official sponsor of these key grassroots initiatives. Their continued investment aligns with our commitment to developing young talent, strengthening community engagement, and building sustainable sports pathways in Fiji. This partnership enhances the athlete and spectator experience, ensuring these events remain cornerstone moments on our annual sporting calendar.” Rooster Chicken, under parent company Future Farms, is a long-time supporter of local sports and says community-based competitions remain essential for identifying and nurturing future national and international athletes. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Sky Pacific locks in Super Rugby rights – FBC News
[Source: Supplied] Sky Pacific has secured exclusive Pay TV rights to deliver every Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific match live across Fiji and the Pacific from 2026 to 2028. The announcement, made by the Fijian Drua on behalf of the Competition Rights Holders, comes just days after the Drua introduced their new Hybrid Broadcast Model, which separates Free-to-Air, Pay TV and digital streaming to expand access for supporters. Under the new deal, Sky Pacific will broadcast all 77 regular season matches, every Fijian Drua fixture, the three qualifying finals, two semi-finals and the grand final ensuring fans won’t miss a moment of the action. Article continues after advertisement The partnership also reinforces Sky Pacific’s long-running relationship with Super Rugby, extending a three-decade presence that has shaped rugby viewership in Fiji and the wider region. Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans says the agreement helps guarantee consistent, world-class coverage for supporters. “Sky Pacific has been a trusted broadcaster of Super Rugby Pacific for the past 30 years and subscribers will be delighted to know that this will remain the case for the next three seasons. Their platform gives fans high-quality, uninterrupted live coverage of every match — a perfect complement to our free-to-air and digital streaming options. This partnership strengthens our Hybrid Broadcast Model and ensures all fans, regardless of platform, have access to world-class rugby.” Digicel Fiji CEO Farid Mohammed says fans can expect a seamless viewing experience across platforms as the 2026 season approaches. “We’re excited to bring the entire Super Rugby Pacific 2026 season for every thrilling moment across Fiji live. With DTV’s flexibility to stream on any device and Sky Pacific’s affordable sign-up and reconnect offers, we’re making it easier than ever for everyone to enjoy world-class rugby action.” The 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season kicks off on 14 February 2026, with the Drua set to ride into the competition backed by a strengthened broadcast lineup on all fronts. Drua will meet Moana Pasifika in their first match at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Hill to battle for vacant Pana Pacific Super Welterweight title – FBC News
Winston Hill [file photo] Fijian Olympian Winston Hill is gearing up for one of the biggest fights of his professional career as he seeks out the vacant IBF Pan Pacific Super Welterweight Championship this weekend. Hill will be taking on Australia’s Ben Mahoney at the Ring Magazine Cruiserweight World Titles event. The bout will be held this Saturday at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. Article continues after advertisement Mahoney, commonly known as “Sydney’s Golden Boy,” comes with a strong record boasting15 straight wins, with eight knockouts. Hill, however, is no stranger to big moments like these. The 2016 Olympian returns to the ring four months after defending his IBO Asian Pacific title against Australian boxer Lachlan O’Shea. That victory kept his perfect professional record intact, and Hill now stands at 7–0, with six wins by knockout. Adding to the hype, Australian Boxing Central has confirmed that World Cruiserweight Champion Jai Opetaia will feature in one of the main bouts on the card, making it one of the biggest fight nights of the year in the region. The event will be held on Saturday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Vuli proud to see referees recognised in inaugural awards – FBC News
Kuini Vuli. [Photo Credit: ONOC] After a hundred years of referees quietly carrying the heartbeat of Fijian rugby, their moment has finally arrived, and for educator Kuini Vuli, the call informing her of her nomination left her overwhelmed with emotion. She says the inaugural Fiji Rugby Referees Awards is more than an honour; it’s long-overdue recognition for the guardians of the game who sacrifice, teach and uphold its spirit every week. It was a moving moment the minute she got the call, never expecting that all her quiet, behind-the-scenes hard work had been truly seen and appreciated. Article continues after advertisement “I think this is because of my contribution to the women’s space and leading up from where it was to where it is now, with over like 60 women referees all over Fiji and still increasing because of the performance of the younger girls now, as well as they’re coming up. And maybe because, well they did write an accredited, you know, level three Metro Official. I believe I’m the only woman accredited with that.” She also says the recognition isn’t about her, but about finally acknowledging the hardworking referees who quietly keep the game flowing. Vuli, the younger sister of former Flying Fijians hooker Sunia Koto, says she’s excited to see her fellow referees dressed in something other than their usual shorts and T-shirts for a change. The awards night will be held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva on the 20th of this month. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Walker impressed with Buna – FBC News
[file photo] Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s head coach Richard Walker says new 7s recruit Atelaite Buna has quickly justified her call-up after an impressive debut at the Dubai 7s. Buna, who was previously on the fringe of the 15s World Cup selection, contributed strongly to Fiji’s fourth-place finish last weekend and is set to feature again in Cape Town. Walker says her progress over the last month has been one of the squad’s standout developments. “Yeah, it’s been really good. We had some spaces available in camp to get ready for Paradise Sevens, and she was just on the fringe of making that World Cup squad. Some of our players made that World Cup squad, so we brought in others who were close, and it’s also hard when you don’t make one team but come into another with the chance to still make it.” He said Buna has shown rapid improvement since arriving in camp. “Buna’s come in and ever since she’s come in she’s been nothing but doing this, just going up, up, up. Really learning, really positive energy. She played well for us at Ignite Sevens. We’re really excited to have her, she’s starting to feel really comfortable, and we’re excited to see her play again this weekend.” Buna and the Fijiana will aim to build on their Dubai performance as the SVNS Series moves to Cape Town. The Fijiana 7s side will take on USA at 8.44pm on Saturday, Great Britain at midnight and then New Zealand at 3.48 am on Sunday morning. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Flying Fijians handed balanced but dangerous pool – FBC News
[Source: Reddit] The Flying Fijians now know their opponents for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, following today’s historic pool draw that features an expanded 24-team format and the introduction of a Round of 16 for the first time. Fiji has been placed in Pool C alongside Argentina, Spain and Canada—an assignment that offers opportunity, but also demands precision across every match in the new, high-stakes structure. The draw places Fiji in a group with only one traditional Tier-1 nation, but the wider format means there is little room for error. Argentina, consistently among world rugby’s toughest defensive sides, loom as Fiji’s biggest hurdle, while Spain and Canada arrive as rising threats capable of capitalising on any slip-ups. Article continues after advertisement With third-place teams also able to qualify for the Round of 16, every point in Pool C will matter. For the Flying Fijians, the expanded structure provides both opportunity and pressure. Having reached the quarterfinals in 2023, expectations are high for another deep run, and the new format may suit Fiji’s pace and physicality as the tournament progresses. The remaining pools present a compelling global landscape. Pool A features hosts Australia alongside New Zealand, Chile and Hong Kong China—setting the stage for an early Bledisloe blockbuster. Pool B gathers South Africa, Italy, Georgia and Romania in what shapes as a physical, forward-dominated group. Pool D sees Ireland, Scotland, Uruguay and Portugal reunited after their memorable 2023 clashes. Pool E brings together France, Japan, the USA and Samoa in one of the more evenly balanced groups on paper. Pool F features England, Wales, Tonga and Zimbabwe in a mix of traditional rivalry and emerging Pacific power. With 24 teams, six pools and a Round of 16 for the first time, the 2027 Rugby World Cup promises a more competitive and unpredictable pathway than ever before. For Fiji, Pool C offers a clear shot at progression, but demands consistency, discipline, and a clinical edge as they aim to surpass their 2023 achievements. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Nabalebale village boy makes it to pro league – FBC News
Rewa FC’s veteran defender Gabiriele Matanisiga has taken a major step in his football career, signing as Bula Warriors FC’s first official player for the inaugural OFC Professional League. The 30-year-old Cakaudrove man has spent more than a decade rising through Fiji’s football ranks. Matanisiga’s journey began at Seqaqa Primary School before he was picked up by Seqaqa FC and later Labasa FC, where he made his early mark, earning accolades such as New Finder of the Tournament (2014) and the BOG Golden Boot (2016). He moved to Rewa FC in 2017 and became one of the club’s most reliable performers, helping the Delta Tigers secure multiple major titles including the CVC, Fiji FACT, BOG, IDC and back-to-back National League championships. His consistency also earned him national duties, representing Fiji at the 2015 FIFA Under-20 World Cup and later featuring in several MSG and Pacific Games campaigns. In 2024, Matanisiga ventured overseas for a season with Wellington Olympic in New Zealand, where he added trophies such as the Charity Cup, Chatham Cup and Central League to his name. He returned to Rewa in 2025, capping off another strong season with league success, an IDC MVP award, and a Pacific Cup win. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
NRL clubs secure signings and extensions ahead of 2026 season – FBC News
Source: NRL Melbourne Storm have reshaped their pack by signing former Knight Jack Hetherington on a one-year deal to cover the loss of Eli Katoa, who will miss the 2026 season through injury. They’ve also added playmaker Trent Toelau and hooker Manaia Waitere, while locking in captain and Kangaroos hooker Harry Grant until the end of 2028. At the same time, fan favourite Ryan Papenhuyzen has been granted an immediate release after a decade of highs and injury battles in Melbourne colours. The Raiders and Cowboys have both moved aggressively in the market. Canberra have secured boom young halfback Coby Black from the Broncos on a three-year deal and added Daine Laurie through to 2028 to bolster their spine. North Queensland have signed veteran prop Matthew Lodge for 2026 to cover injuries up front, secured versatile utility James Walsh until 2028, and extended front-rower Griffin Neame to 2029 as a key long-term piece of their middle rotation. The new Perth Bears franchise has made a splash ahead of their 2027 entry by raiding Super League and the NRL. England centre Harry Newman and playmaker Toby Sexton are confirmed as their first signings, with Newman set to arrive after the 2026 World Cup. They’ve since added young talents Luke Smith and Emarly Bitungane, both of whom will spend time in the UK with London Broncos before heading to Perth. Several traditional heavyweights have focused on retention and targeted experience. The Roosters have extended Dally M Rookie of the Year Rob Toia until 2029, signed Manly legend Daly Cherry-Evans for the 2026 season, and locked in rising forward Blake Steep to 2028 while adding Cody Ramsey after his remarkable comeback. Penrith have signed hooker Freddy Lussick and forwards Tom Ale and Kalani Going, and promoted exciting fullback Jaxen Edgar as a potential long-term successor to Dylan Edwards. On the Gold Coast, the Titans have doubled down on their youth and playmaking stocks. Jayden Campbell has signed a mammoth extension through to 2031, while the club has also brought in halfback Lachlan Ilias and hooker Luke Sommerton for 2026–27. Max Feagai joins to strengthen their outside backs, with a host of Queensland Cup standouts and development players — including Oliver Pascoe and Josh Patston — promoted or added on longer-term deals as the Titans build depth across the squad. Manly and South Sydney have also locked in key stars. Tom Trbojevic has committed to the Sea Eagles through 2027, with the club also re-signing hooker Jake Simpkin, adding Broncos back-rower Kobe Hetherington, signing prop Davvy Moale from 2027, and picking up winger Blake Wilson. At the Rabbitohs, livewire fullback Jye Gray has extended to 2029, while the club pulled off a major coup by signing powerhouse back-rower David Fifita on a two-year deal and retaining young forward Thomas Fletcher among a cluster of promising re-signings. Elsewhere, the player market has seen a constant flow of movement and strategic reshaping. The Warriors have secured halfback Luke Metcalf until 2028 and lured Titans speedster Alofiana Khan-Pereira on a three-year deal, while Wests Tigers have added promising fullback Jack Attard, re-signed centre Taylan May to 2027, and bolstered their middle with Bunty Afoa. The Dragons have extended emerging back-rower Hamish Stewart and farewelled veteran prop David Klemmer to St Helens, and the Eels have locked in Josh Addo-Carr to 2027 while releasing Zac Lomax after just one season. Across the league, veteran mainstays and club favourites have also finalised their futures. James Tedesco has extended with the Roosters to 2027, champion prop Josh Papalii has re-signed with the Raiders for 2026 after becoming their most-capped player, and Manly forward Siosiua Taukeiaho has taken up another year at the Sea Eagles. With numerous development deals, upgrades and long-term extensions confirmed, clubs are clearly balancing star signings with pathways talent as they position their rosters for 2026 and beyond. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.