A player who tested negative for narcotics during the Extra Battle of the Giants 2025 (BOG) revealed signs of alcohol consumption, as reported by Fiji Football Association Chief Executive Mohammed Yusuf. The announcement was made during an interview with Times Sport at the association’s office in Vatuwaqa, Suva.
Yusuf explained that the player appears to have consumed alcohol while at a training camp in Labasa, despite not showing signs of intoxication during the games. While the player is not yet suspended, Yusuf noted that the association would implement measures regarding this incident.
In a positive development, no new players tested positive for drugs on the final day of pool games, although three players had previously tested positive on the first two days. These three players have been suspended, as a total of 72 tests were conducted over the competition’s duration—24 tests per day.
The association views the data gathered from these tests as crucial in addressing substance abuse in football. Previous tournaments, including the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship, showed a concerning trend in drug use, where 21 out of 180 players tested positive. The Fiji FA is committed to maintaining the integrity of the sport and enhancing educational initiatives to combat substance abuse among players.
The semi-finals are set for this Saturday, with Navua facing Labasa and Rewa taking on Lautoka, culminating in the final on Sunday.
This proactive approach, amid the challenges posed by substance use in sports, presents an opportunity for the Fiji FA to reinforce its commitment to a clean and fair playing environment. Continued education and stringent testing measures could pave the way for a healthier future in Fijian football.
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