Former Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu has raised serious allegations regarding corrupt practices within Rugby House. In a recent interview, he revealed that the Flying Fijians considered boycotting last year’s Rugby World Cup quarterfinal against England due to unpaid bonuses.
Nayacalevu was firm in his claims, comparing the corruption to a virus that needs to be eradicated for progress to be made. While he is entitled to express his concerns, the 34-year-old is urged to approach such accusations with caution, especially considering the dedicated staff at Rugby House who strive to advance the sport in Fiji despite various challenges.
The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has responded diplomatically, challenging Nayacalevu to provide substantiating evidence for his claims. The organization emphasized that failing to do so could undermine his responsibilities as a leader within the sport.
The FRU confirmed Nayacalevu’s threat to boycott alongside senior players Semi Radradra and Levani Botia. The interim chairman of the FRU, Peter Mazey, stated that such a boycott could lead to serious repercussions, including the exclusion of Fiji players from World Rugby matches. Mazey called on Nayacalevu to clarify his allegations of corruption and provide specific examples if they exist.
Moreover, the FRU is prepared to hold Nayacalevu accountable if he cannot substantiate his claims, which serves as a critical reminder to other Fijian rugby players about the importance of integrity within the sport.
In a more positive light, congratulations are in order for the Flying Fijians, who recently triumphed in the Pacific Nations Cup, defeating Japan 41-17 in the final held in Osaka. Coach Mick Byrne’s team, which showcased a fresh lineup, demonstrated a strong performance, especially in the second half, after entering halftime tied at 10-10. This victory marks a significant step in their preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.